FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
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STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
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John L. Winn
Commissioner of Education
F. PHILIP HANDY,
Chairman
T. WILLARD FAIR,
Vice Chairman
Members
DONNA G. CALLAWAY
JULIA L. JOHNSON
ROBERTO MARTÍNEZ
PHOEBE RAULERSON
LINDA K. TAYLOR
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Contact Information:
Karen Morris
850-245-0478
Karen.Morris@fldoe.org
K12: 2005-111
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Exceptional Student Education Directors
FROM:
Bambi J. Lockman
DATE:
August 23, 2005
SUBJECT: Exceptional Student Education Week in Florida
We are pleased to inform you that October 2-8, 2005, is Exceptional Student Education (ESE)
Week in Florida. Please recognize Florida’s educators who have contributed to improved
instructional leadership and higher student achievement through their dedication to Florida’s
ESE programs.
Florida’s education system is based upon the principle that all individuals shall have the
opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve their full potential and
contribute to the general welfare of the community. Educational programs for exceptional
students, including students with disabilities and students who are gifted, incorporate this
fundamental principle. In Florida, students with disabilities receive a variety of specialized
services and instruction that enable them to participate in, and benefit from, educational
activities. These services include:
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Assistive technology services, such as communication devices, Braille, or large print
materials, allow students with disabilities to participate in classroom activities, benefit
from instruction, and demonstrate their capabilities.
BAMBI J. LOCKMAN
Chief
Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services
325 W. GAINES STREET • SUITE 614 • TALLAHASSEE, FL 32399-0400 • (850) 245-0475 • www.fldoe.org
Exceptional Student Education Week in Florida
August 23, 2005
Page 2
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Transition services allow students with disabilities to attain their desired postschool
outcomes, including postsecondary education, employment, and adult living.
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Advanced academic opportunities, such as acceleration and enrichment, allow students who
are gifted to expand their horizons and reach their potential.
The state of Florida’s ESE programs have demonstrated their commitment to school
improvement and accountability for all students. These programs have increased positive
outcomes for Florida’s approximately 514,000 exceptional students ages birth through 21.
Nearly 57,000 Florida teachers, paraprofessionals, and other educators who work daily to assist
these students and their parents to achieve their goals and progress on the path to excellence also
demonstrate this commitment.
The contributions of these educators are worthy of recognition and appreciation. To foster this
recognition and appreciation, we encourage you to work with others in your area to develop
activities that focus on the success of ESE students and their teachers.
Thank you for contributing to a statewide program of public recognition highlighting the
strengths and activities of Florida’s ESE programs.
BJL/kmm
cc:
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Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System Associate Center Managers
Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System Specialized Center Managers
