January 7, Message Regarding OHS Special Ed.


Good Evening,

As an administrator, former district social worker, community member and Oxford parent, I feel a deep sense of commitment and connection to our students. As the return plan has solidified, the special education department has been able to discuss and plan for our students specifically. As we look to the upcoming weeks, here are some of the supports that will be in place:

  • Students will have the opportunity to improve their grades. Students will also have the opportunity to take a “pass” with a 52% or higher, earning a “G” on their report card through the Personal Curriculum process. Students whose grade is below 52% will have an opportunity to obtain credit on a case-by-case basis in collaboration with the student’s team through the Personal Curriculum process.
  • Oakland Schools will be assigning School Social Workers (SSWs) from within the county to teams of case managers. There will be mental health/trauma therapists available to all students (and certainly ours), but these SSWs will work specifically with each special education case manager and set of students to provide counseling, assess for possible referrals, and provide insight into what supports the student might need moving forward.
  • Our categorical programs will also have a specific mental health support person and special populations consultant from Oakland Schools assigned to them.
  • We will slowly begin rescheduling any postponed IEP meetings. At the secondary level, it is important to us that the students have input and voice into their IEP. We will begin those conversations slowly and when students are ready. If your student had a postponed meeting that you would like expedited, please contact your student’s case manager.
  • We will assess any lost learning and provide opportunities for skill-building during the rest of this school year and into the summer.

We appreciate your patience, as we understand the unknown has been extremely difficult. It is important to us that our staff have the support and training they need in order to welcome your children back. I also plan to be with our special education department as much as possible over the next month and beyond. Please feel free to reach out.


Sincerely,

Pam Biehl

Pamela Biehl, LMSW, Ed. S
Executive Director of Special Education
Oxford Community Schools
10 North Washington
Oxford MI 48371
248-969-5015