"Meeting the needs of individual students within a unified school community setting."

The District Based Program, coordinated by Monroe #1 BOCES, was established in 1978 to meet the ever-changing needs of students. Our District Based Program vision is to “initiate and develop educational programs that meet the needs of individual students within a unified school community setting.” These programs are accomplished through collaboration with families, businesses, and school district personnel. District Based students work toward achieving either a Regents or an IEP (Individual Education Program) diploma. In addition, students often participate in various related services and programs.

The District Based Program serves as a vital link between area school districts and BOCES special education services, providing the unique learning environment that enables students to be successful in the general education setting. The District Based classrooms, staffed by certified special education teachers and paraprofessionals, serve students from school districts in Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario counties, as well as in the Rochester City School District. Throughout the school year, District Based staff take advantage of a variety of staff development training opportunities to help them better meet the unique and complex needs of their students.
 
The District Based Program offers special education classes at the elementary, middle school and high school levels. Class size varies depending upon student needs and services requested.

District Based Program students also have the option of participating in a variety of vocational and career & technical experiences offered by individual districts and/or Monroe #1 BOCES.

As part of the District Based Program, the team, including family, students, and related staff, collaborate to develop a transition plan for post graduation. This plan includes goals and objectives for school experiences as well as work/vocational opportunities.

Following completion of their high school requirements, the District Based Program hosts a graduation banquet to honor the graduates by highlighting their accomplishments. The students may also take part in graduation ceremonies in their home school district or in the district in which they have participated in the District Based Program.
 
District Based Program students have the additional benefit of support and guidance provided by our staff, while the students participate as contributing members
of their school’s student body.