Portland Public School

What are related services? 

Related Services are the essential support services your child may need to benefit from their special education program, whether that program is outlined in an IEP or, sometimes, a 504 Plan.  These services include Speech/Language, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Behavior Modification (Board Certified Behavior Analyst services), or Counseling. These services could be delivered via a "pull-out" model wherein students are pulled out of the general education classroom to receive services, or a "push-in" model wherein the service is delivered in the general education environment. 

Why does my child receive speech or occupational therapy at a clinic but not at school? 

Clinics and other outside providers use a medical model to deliver services. The school district uses an educational model, meaning thatthe scope of services is to help qualifying students access their education. A clinic might provide services for concerns that are not core to a child's access to their education (e.g. feeding therapy).  Please see the information sheet linked below. 

Can students who do not have a 504 Plan or IEP receive related services? 

Yes. Some students may receive short-term intervention services without an IEP or 504 Plan. This is typically reserved for students receiving intervention through the Multi-Tiered Support Services (MTSS) at each school building. These services are typically short-term and target one specific skill. All students also have access to school-based clinicians for support without an IEP or 504 Plan. 

Who should I contact with questions about related services? 

Please reach out to Sara McLaughlin, Director of Student Services, for all questions regarding related services. She can be reached at: (860) 342-2778 or via email smclaughlin@portlandct.us. 

Resources: 

• School-based vs. medical model of related services