The Special Education Department at Greenville City Schools
The Special Education Department at Greenville City Schools is committed to ensuring that every student with identified disabilities receives high-quality, specially designed instruction within a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Through a comprehensive continuum of services, the district meets the diverse academic, social, and functional needs of students from early childhood through high school graduation and beyond.
A Continuum of Services: From Early Learning to Adult Readiness
Greenville City Schools provides a full range of special education services aligned with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Services are individualized, data-driven, and designed to help students access the general education curriculum while making meaningful progress toward their goals.
A cornerstone of this continuum is the district’s strong partnership with Anthony Wayne and Care-A-Lot Early Childhood Center, the county preschool program. This collaboration supports early identification of needs, coordinated services, and smoother transitions into kindergarten. By strengthening early learning experiences, Greenville City Schools helps ensure students enter school ready to learn and succeed.
As students’ progress through elementary, middle, and high school, the Special Education Department offers a variety of instructional settings, related services, and transition supports. These experiences are intentionally designed to prepare students for college, career pathways, the workforce, and independent living, based on individual strengths and post-secondary goals.
Understanding Our District and Community
Greenville City Schools serves approximately 2,300 students in grades preschool through 12 across four school buildings. The district reflects the broader Greenville and Darke County community, with a largely rural population and a growing focus on individual student needs.
Understanding district demographics allows the Special Education Department to:
- Plan services responsively
- Address disproportionality
- Promote inclusive practices
- Ensure access to instruction and supports
This data-informed approach helps ensure all students, including those with disabilities, are supported in reaching their full potential.
State-Level Improvements and Accountability Success
Greenville City Schools has demonstrated measurable improvement on state accountability indicators, reflecting the district’s commitment to continuous growth and student success:
- Graduation Rate Improvement: The district’s graduation rate has increased above the state average for students with disabilities, demonstrating success in keeping students engaged and on track to earn a diploma.
- Reduced Dropout Rates: Targeted interventions and student support have contributed to improved persistence through high school.
- Improved Disproportionality Data: Focused review of identification practices and instructional supports has strengthened appropriate categorization of need.
- Timely Reporting and Compliance: The district has improved timelines for evaluations, IEP development, progress monitoring, and state reporting requirements.
These improvements benefit all students and are especially impactful for those receiving specially designed instruction.
Preparing Students for the Future
Greenville City Schools emphasizes college, career, and workforce readiness for all learners. Students with disabilities are supported through:
- Transition planning beginning by age 14
- Career exploration opportunities
- Skill development for employment and independent living
- Collaboration with families and community partners
This future-focused approach ensures students leave Greenville City Schools prepared for life beyond high school.
A Commitment to Every Student
The Special Education Department at Greenville City Schools exemplifies a student-centered philosophy—beginning with early childhood partnerships, strengthening academic and functional skills across grade levels, and preparing students for meaningful adult outcomes.
Through strong collaboration, improved state outcomes, and a commitment to early learning and equity, Greenville City Schools continues to build a system where every learner is supported, valued, and empowered to succeed.
I would love to hear from you. Please reach out if you have questions.
Rhonda Schaar, Director of Special Services at Greenville City Schools. Rschaar@gcswave.com, 937-548-3185 ext 4002
