Special Education
Every student deserves an education that works for them. Mt. Lebanon School District provides a full continuum of special education services for students with identified disabilities — from kindergarten through 12th grade — in compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Pennsylvania Chapter 14 regulations.
Our special education team works alongside classroom teachers, families, and outside providers to develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that reflect each student's unique strengths, needs, and goals. We are committed to providing services in the least restrictive environment and to keeping families informed and involved at every step.
Contact
Dr. Jennifer Shuman
Director of Special Education and Student Services
412.344.2044
jshuman@mtlsd.net
Special Education Department
Sandra Kwiecien
Secretary
skwiecien@mtlsd.net
412.344.2044
Special Education Programs & Services
Learning Support
Specially designed instruction for students who need targeted academic support, provided within the general education classroom, a resource room, or a combination of both based on each student's needs.
Life Skills Support
Functional academic skills, communication, and real-world independence for students who benefit from a more specialized approach to learning.
Emotional Support
A structured, therapeutic educational environment for students whose emotional or behavioral needs require more specialized support.
Speech/Language Support
Communication support from certified speech-language pathologists for articulation, language processing, and fluency needs.
Occupational & Physical Therapy
Related services supporting fine motor skills, sensory processing, and physical mobility as outlined in each student's IEP.
Hearing & Vision Support Program and Services
Tools and supports that help students access the curriculum and communicate effectively.
Requesting an Evaluation
If you have concerns about your child's learning or development, you have the right to request a comprehensive evaluation. The process is collaborative and always focused on your child.
How It Works
- Submit a Written Request: Any parent, guardian, or school staff member can request an evaluation in writing. Contact your child's building principal or our Special Education office to get started.
- Provide Consent: Before any evaluation begins, you will receive a Permission to Evaluate form. Your written consent is required. Once received, the district has 60 calendar days to complete the evaluation.
- The Evaluation: A team of qualified professionals conducts a comprehensive assessment — which may include academic and psychological testing, classroom observations, and interviews. You are an important part of this process.
- Review the Results: You will receive a written Evaluation Report and be invited to a meeting to review the findings. You have the right to bring an advocate, an outside professional, or anyone else you choose.
- Determine Eligibility: The full team — including you — reviews the evaluation and determines whether your child is eligible for special education services. If eligible, IEP development begins immediately.
Download the Evaluation Request Form
Ready to request an evaluation? Call us at (412) 344-2000 or contact your child's school principal.
Transportation
The District’s Transportation for Exceptional Children contract is currently held by First Student and First Alt and runs through the end of the 2028 - 2029 school year. Transportation is provided as follows.
- Students requiring transportation as identified in their IEP
- Students requiring transportation intradistrict through a GIEP
- McKinney-Vento students
- Those students in foster care
- Students attending Parkway West Vo-Tech
First Student FirstView
In collaboration with our transportation partner, First Student, MTLSD is launching FirstView®, a real-time GPS vehicle tracking and student transportation monitoring platform.
- See the real-time vehicle location via GPS and track its progress.
- Easy access to vehicle details as well as updates regarding any changes.
- Receive distance notification alerts when the vehicle is near.
- Set-up family members and caregivers to receive trip email alerts.
To access your code, please review the letters below:
Transportation Contact Information
- First Student Dispatch* – 412-831-3112
- FirstAlt Dispatch* – 800-315-5079
*To cancel transportation (Student is sick, has a doctor's appt., early dismissal, etc.)
Mt. Lebanon School District
Scheduling, contact information, or any changes to student requirements
Heather DiFilippo
Secretary of Student Support
412-344-2011
hdifilippo@mtlsd.net
Transition Services
One of the most meaningful things we do together is plan for life after high school. This future-forward thinking becomes a formal part of every eligible student's IEP.
Post-Secondary Education
Exploring college, vocational training, and continuing education options.
Career Preparation
Vocational assessment and work-based learning experiences.
Independent Living
Life skills and community participation goals tailored to each student.
Agency Connections
Links to OVR and Allegheny County adult services before graduation.
Legal Notices & Compliance
Mt. Lebanon School District is committed to full compliance with all federal and state laws governing special education. The information below is required by law and available to all families.