Special Education 

     In Decatur County, our district is proud to serve the needs of our special education students. We strive to provide all students with an education that will empower them to reach their potential. Every school in our system serves some special needs students.

     The philosophy of our special education department is to enforce the belief that “all children can learn.” Our purpose is to provide each student with a disability in our school system with an individualized education program (IEP) that is designed to provide appropriate educational services.

     The mission of special education in Decatur County Schools is to identify and support exceptional children. Our program is established uniquely for each student who meets specific criteria. Our services are delivered on a continuum ranging from an hour or two per week to full day, self-contained classes. In accordance with state and federal laws, each student who is eligible for special education services is provided a free, appropriate, public education in their least restrictive environment.

Notice of Destruction of Special Education Records

     Under federal law, special education records which have been collected by the Decatur County School System shall be retained for a minimum of three years after special education services to the student have ended. These records may be of use when applying for Social Security benefits, rehabilitation services, college, etc.

Contact Information

Special Education Supervisor:  Tina Gardner     [email protected]
Special Education Psychologist: Scott Maxwell     [email protected]
Special Ed Administrative Asst: Carolyn Tate     [email protected]

Phone: (731) 852-2391     Fax: (731) 852-2960

Tennessee Disability Pathfinder – A statewide clearinghouse of disability-related resources and multilingual helpline