Vision Statement: The vision of the Griffin-Spalding County Department of Exceptional Students is to be an agent of change, transforming our students into future-ready learners and contributing members of society.

Mission Statement: The mission of the Griffin-Spalding County Department of Exceptional Students is to prepare each student for successful transitions by providing quality individualized services and supports.

The Department of Exceptional Students supports and serves students with disabilities by providing appropriate instructional supports and services for a free, appropriate public education as appropriate for student progress. The department’s goal is to provide high-quality quality specially designed instruction to meet the needs of students ages three through twenty-one who are eligible for special education and related services according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). 

In Griffin-Spalding County Schools, a full continuum of services and resources are available to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. Supports range from less restrictive to more restrictive environments, depending on the specific needs of the student. The department also supports schools in ensuring students with disabilities appropriately access the general education curriculum through Special Education services and supports. 

Services provided through the Department of Exceptional Students include (but are not limited to):

• Develop, review, and implement the Individualized Education Program (IEP) plans

• Provide a continuum of service supports to assist students in the general education curriculum in a variety of ways

• Lead and Facilitate Professional Development related to the needs of teachers and students

• Accommodate and Modify Instruction according to IEP needs

• Present educational information to students through Specially Designed Instructional support services

• Facilitate parent outreach and educate and support families

• Offer specialized preschool Special Education Services through a continuum of support

• Review and provide specialized supports for speech, occupational, and physical therapy and many other specialized service areas

• Provide and maintain adaptive equipment as needed

Utilize, provide, and train students, teachers, and parents on a variety of appropriate Assistive Technology resources

Charles Kelley
Director