Special Education
Bridget Murphy
Nicole Duffy
The Plainedge School District operates one of the most comprehensive special education programs in New York serving over 400 students with disabilities.
Plainedge has a comprehensive special education program with a warm, nurturing, and dynamic atmosphere. Our policies and procedures ensure that student’s right to a “free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment” is available for all students with a disability from the ages of three through twenty-one.
Plainedge teachers and staff are dedicated to maintaining a level of excellence and outreach to ensure that each student with a disability receives specialized instruction and related services.
Part-time and full-time special ed services are tailored to the needs of each student. Special education teachers work cooperatively with general education teachers to achieve a learning environment with the least restrictions.
For students who need additional support, we provide an in-district Life Skills Program to enable them to achieve the highest level of independence and acquire the skills necessary to be successful individuals and life-long learners.
Whenever possible Plainedge educates their students within the District. By educating students in-district, students with disabilities maintain neighborhood friends and are able to participate in everyday school life such as sports, chorus, music, and art.
The policies and procedures of Plainedge‘s Special Education Department are overseen by the Board of Education and regulated by New York State and Federal laws.
Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE)
Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Pursuant to PL 99-457 and Section 4410 of the Educational Law, school districts are responsible for serving 3 and 4-year-old children with disabilities. If you suspect that your youngster has a disability or are referred by your doctor or a preschool professional, please call 516-992-7480.
The Plainedge School District offers a robust continuum of special education services to meet each student’s individual needs. These services include:
- Resource Room
- Consultant Teacher
- Integrated Co-Teaching
- Special Class – Regents Track
- Special Class – Skills & Achievement Commencement Credential Track
- Speech & Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Counseling
- Parent Counseling & Training
- Itinerant Vision Services
- Itinerant Hearing Services
- Behavior Intervention Services
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🐾 Special visitors brightened our day at the Extended School Year Program! Today, students enjoyed some tail-wagging therapy as our furry friend brought smiles, comfort, and calm to all. 🐶💛 Thank you to our therapy dogs and handlers for sharing the love and making today unforgettable! #PlainedgeESY #TherapyDogVisit #PawsitiveVibes #SummerSmiles
📚🎲 Summer reading fun is in full swing with Bookopoly!
Plainedge elementary students (grades K–5), are having a blast participating in Bookoply! Need a new Game Board? Visit our website at bit.ly/Summerreading2025
✅ Complete 20+ fun boxes by Sept. 12 to become a Plainedge Reader Leader and score an awesome prize + district recognition!
📸 Keep those photos coming—we LOVE to see your reading adventures!
#PlainedgePride #SummerReading #BookopolyChallenge #ReaderLeader #PlainedgeReads
👮♂️✨ Members of the NCPD’s 8th Precinct visited our Extended School Year classrooms this summer. Students created heartfelt thank you cards and received a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to be a police officer. It was a fun and meaningful day connecting with the officers who help keep our community safe! 💙🚓
#weareplainedge #lead #pride #together #community #summer #learning #fun #weareplainedge #plainedgepride
Welcome Brian Sacks, to the Plainedge Community!
We are thrilled to welcome Brian Sacks as the newest member of the Plainedge team! Brian brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education, athletics, and student development.
With over 20 years in the field, Brian has most recently served as the Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics at Riverhead Central School District, where he led numerous initiatives including the launch of unified sports programs, the expansion of intramurals, and the modernization of physical education curriculum. His leadership helped enhance student engagement, school spirit, and athletic excellence.
Brian holds advanced degrees in both School Administration and Physical Education, is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, and is highly respected for his collaborative and student-centered approach. His past coaching roles and dedication to health and wellness underscore his lifelong commitment to empowering students both in and out of the classroom.
Please join us in giving Brian a warm Plainedge welcome!
#plainedgepride #plainedgeproud #weare #together #united #athletics #community
Meet Dennis Ricci, Assistant to the Superintendent for Academic Services!
With over a decade of experience in educational leadership, Dennis is passionate about fostering innovative learning environments. He previously served as Principal at Clayton Huey Elementary School in Center Moriches, NY, and has led initiatives such as IB World School accreditation, professional development for teachers, and the development of inclusive programs. His expertise spans from teaching 3rd grade to guiding schools through strategic growth and curriculum enhancements.
We`re excited to have him on board to lead academic excellence and shape the future of education!
#EducationalLeader #AcademicExcellence #EducationalLeadership #SchoolLeadership
What an amazing first week of our Summer Enrichment Program! From high-energy sports and dance to creative adventures with clay, paint, and space exploration. Our students are diving into new experiences, building skills, and having a blast while learning. Here’s to a summer filled with curiosity, creativity, and discovery!
Don’t miss a moment of the summer fun, follow @plainedgesummerenrich to see it all unfold!
#SummerEnrichment #STEAMfun #CreativeLearners #SUMMER #Plainedgepride #Plainedgeproud
On behalf of Plainedge Public Schools and the Board of Education, we wish you all a Happy 4th of July! Enjoy the holiday celebrating our beautiful country!
#WeArePlainedge #plainedgestrong #plainedgepride #plainedgeproud #publiceducation #4thofjuly #longisland
On Thursday evening, we proudly celebrated the unforgettable graduation ceremony of the Plainedge High School Class of 2025.
Senior Class President and Salutatorian Giulia Giuffrida, alongside Valedictorian Shayan Joarder, delivered heartfelt speeches encouraging their classmates to follow their passions, stay true to themselves, and remain focused on their goals.
Principal Lauren Iocco, Board of Education President Joseph Beyrouty, and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward Salina shared their congratulations and offered inspiring words to the graduates.
As we mark this milestone, we look forward to seeing all that our graduates will achieve and hope they’ll always feel a connection to their roots at Plainedge. Wherever you go, you’ll always carry a piece of Plainedge with you.
#weareplainedge #education #plainedgepride #together #graduation #classof2025
Congratulations to the Class of 2025 Middle School Graduates!
Nicholas Wahl, President of the National Junior Honor Society, delivered an inspiring address to the graduating class, highlighting their achievements, shared memories, and the limitless opportunities that await them at Plainedge High School.
A special recognition goes to the Middle School Drama Club for their captivating performance of “Bring on the Monsters” from The Lightning Thief: “The Percy Jackson Musical.”
The Plainedge Board of Education, along with the central administration, faculty, and staff, has full confidence that this class will continue to excel in high school and beyond.
To the Plainedge Middle School Class of 2025, stay true to yourselves and remember that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.
#Weareplainedge #weare #plainedgepride #plainedgeproud #community #education
Jump into summer reading fun! All Plainedge elementary students entering grades K–5 are invited to join this exciting reading challenge. The Monopoly-inspired gameboard includes creative categories such as Setting, Create, Play, Digital, and more—there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy! Complete 20 or more fun boxes by September 12 to become a Plainedge Reader Leader--and earn an awesome prize and district recognition.
Let the summer reading fun begin! #weareplainedge
Need a new Game Board? Visit our website at bit.ly/Summerreading2025
