Big Hollow School District

Welcome to the Special Services Department

Student Services – Big Hollow School District #38

At Big Hollow School District #38, the Student Services Department is committed to supporting the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth of all students through inclusive, equitable, and comprehensive programming. We work collaboratively with families, educators, and community partners to ensure every student receives the support they need to reach their full potential.

Our Services Include:

Special Education

We provide a full continuum of special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Eligibility for services is determined through a team-based process that includes staff, specialists, and parents. Services may include academic support, speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, counseling, and more.
Parent Rights: ISBE Notice of Procedural Safeguards

Mandated Notice of IEP Related Service Logs
In compliance with Illinois law, Big Hollow #38 maintains written logs documenting the delivery of related services as required by students’ IEPs. These logs record the type and minutes of services provided and are available to parents upon request. Parents will be informed if related services are not delivered as outlined in the IEP.

Medicaid Reimbursement Notification
The district may seek Medicaid reimbursement for eligible health-related services provided to students with IEPs. This does not affect the child’s Medicaid benefits, and there is no cost to families. Parents have the right to decline participation in the reimbursement program.

Section 504 Plans
In compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, students with disabilities who do not require special education services but need accommodations to access their education are eligible for a 504 Plan. These plans are developed collaboratively and reviewed annually to ensure equal access to learning.

Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
Our MTSS framework provides academic and behavioral supports at increasing levels of intensity based on student needs. Through data-driven practices, staff regularly monitor student progress and intervene early to prevent academic and behavioral difficulties.

Social-Emotional Learning and Mental Health
Big Hollow #38 is dedicated to fostering positive mental health and social-emotional growth. We provide school counseling, social work services, and connections to outside resources for students in need. Our SEL initiatives align with the Illinois Social-Emotional Learning Standards.

English Learner (EL) Services
We support English Learners (ELs) in developing English language proficiency while ensuring full access to the academic curriculum. Services are tailored to students’ language proficiency levels and may include ESL instruction, push-in/pull-out support, and classroom accommodations.

Big Hollow #38 is proud to offer a Dual Language Program, which promotes bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement, and cross-cultural understanding. Students enrolled in this program receive instruction in both English and Spanish, preparing them to become proficient in two languages while mastering grade-level content.

Homeless Education (McKinney-Vento Act)
In compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act, we ensure that students experiencing homelessness have equal access to education and related services. This includes enrollment assistance, transportation, and access to free meals and extracurricular activities.

For support, contact our Homeless Liaison: Dr. Erin Pittman, erinpittman@bighollow.us, 847-740-1490

Health Services
Our school nurses promote the health and wellness of all students by managing chronic health conditions, administering medication, and ensuring compliance with state immunization and health requirements.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
We implement PBIS to promote respectful, responsible, and safe behavior throughout our schools. This proactive framework supports student well-being and reduces the need for disciplinary measures.

Early Childhood
We offer early childhood screenings and services for children ages 3–5 with identified delays. In addition, a tuition-based preschool program is available for students age 3-5 who reside within the District boundaries.

Parent Involvement and Rights
We encourage families to partner with us in supporting their children. Parents are essential members of the team and have rights protected by IDEA, Section 504, and other federal and state laws.