Dearborn Schools program aids students with disabilities through co-teaching model

Dr. Sue Carnell - Chief Deputy Superintendent | Michigan Department of Education

A program at Dearborn Public Schools is making strides in supporting students with disabilities through a co-teaching model involving both general and special education teachers. This initiative has contributed to the success of students like Hadi Najjar, a sophomore at Dearborn High School, who is now a published author. Hadi, who has autism, presented at the State Board of Education meeting alongside Mr. Mike Esseily, the executive director of special populations for the district.

Hadi shared his positive experiences with the board members, stating, “Overall, with my co-teachers I always felt like I had someone who accepted me without judgment and [supported] me with navigating my academics, school, and life.” His book, "Different Ability," explores his personal journey growing up with autism.

According to Esseily, Dearborn introduced the co-teaching approach in 2005. The program pairs general and special education teachers to deliver specially designed instruction, helping to meet the needs of every student. "It’s truly the power of two,” Esseily remarked. “It’s not just teaching the same old way. The needs of every single child are being met.”

Esseily also highlighted the high standards of the co-teaching program, which have led to increased graduation rates. He noted that the district’s three high schools have special education graduation rates of almost 82%. Esseily added that all students are integrated into the school community, fostering empathy among general education students.

The Dearborn presentation was among two discussions on special education at the board meeting. The second presentation featured an update on efforts by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) to support students with disabilities in adherence with federal mandates. The MDE Office of Special Education is involved in a comprehensive review of school districts to ensure compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) grants.

Dr. Michele Harmala, the deputy superintendent of Educator Excellence, Career and Technical Education, Special Education, and Administrative Law, emphasized the importance of inclusive environments for children receiving special education services. “We are working in partnership with intermediate school districts and local schools to ensure that students with disabilities are participating in their least restrictive environment as determined by their Individualized Education Program teams,” she stated.

Additionally, Ms. Teri Rink, director of the MDE Office of Special Education, along with special education leaders from various intermediate school districts, expounded on the importance of the monitoring process for students who receive special education services. Presenters included Dr. Jen Taiariol from Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency, Ms. Kristina Penfold from Copper Country ISD, Ms. Susanne Masters from Bay Arenac ISD, and Ms. Andrea Scheidel from Wexford-Missaukee ISD.