Educational Support

The following services are provided to Muskegon County Local School Districts by the MAISD Special Education Behavioral Support Consultants:

Individual Student Support - MAISD provides individualized behavioral support for teachers of those students who have been identified Special Ed eligible, as well as section 504 students and/or pre-referral students with behavior challenges. Assistance with the development of Functional Assessments and Behavioral Intervention Plans is provided. This support generally occurs on one of three levels:

1. Informal Consultation - Local Special Education directors, supervisors, consultant or teachers may call and/or email our offices at any time with a behavioral question or concern. We will gladly provide a phone consultation or meeting to direct you to recommended resources, as well as potentially supportive materials at The Discovery Center.

2. Formal Consultation - A formal consultation involves observation of the student, followed by a meeting with staff involved to brainstorm and assist in the development of a behavioral intervention plan (BIP). To receive a formal consultation fill out the Behavioral Support Referral Form and submit it to the District Special Education director or Service Unit's director for approval.

3. Intensive Formal Involvement - Formal involvement is comprised of assistance with the development of a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA), an individualized Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP), and if necessary, a Manifestation Determination. Once the plan is written, the behavioral support consultants may assist in:

  • making necessary revisions
  • working with parents to develop strategies for the home
  • developing appropriate accommodations for the student
  • insuring due process and procedural safeguards
  • assisting in the interpretation of IDEA 97 Regulations

Classroom, Program, or School Wide Support - The MAISD Behavioral Support Consultants will work with individual teachers, programs or schools to develop comprehensive support plans. Such support plans involve the use of positive behavioral support strategies, community building, restorative justice concepts and the teaching of appropriate interpersonal (anger/conflict management, etc.) and/or social skills (making friends, saying no, etc.)

Networking and Team Collaboration - MAISD provides a leadership role with teams, schools and districts

  • Regular meeting opportunities for support staff, school improvement teams, behavior support teams
  • Meetings with principals, program directors, coordinators
  • MAPS - McGill Action Planning System - collaborative planning session for low incidence students included into regular education settings