SHERMAN — At their meeting in December, Sherman Central School Board of Education members received an update on special education services from Director of Pupil Services Ann Morrison and Curriculum Coordinator, Andrea Bryant.

Bryant provided an overview of the 94 students receiving special education services in the district, which accounts for 22% of the total 419 students enrolled at SCS. She further broke this down to show the number of students in each grade level. In pre-K, there are two students and in Kindergarten through 2nd grade, 18 students are supported while grades 3 through 5 have 22 students that are in special ed. In middle school grades six to eight there are 21 students and at the high school level, 28 students are enrolled in special education programs.

Bryant highlighted that 21 students are in self-contained classrooms, where they spend their ELA and Math blocks in a specialized setting. The remaining students receive support in a less restrictive environment.

Morrison expanded on the presentation by discussing the specific needs of students with disabilities. She emphasized the increasing demand for speech and occupational therapy, particularly among preschool age students. Additionally, Morrison outlined the variety of special education programs and services offered by the district, some of which are provided in collaboration with Clymer Central School District. Looking ahead, Morrison prompted a discussion about the district’s future plans for special education classrooms and programs as younger students progress to high school.

In other matters, Sherman Superintendent Carrie Yohe commended the success of the Clymer/Sherman/Panama victory over Burke Catholic in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Class D championship football game. Since this is the Wolfpack’s third state title in seven years, and the final score in the Dec. 6 championship game was 46-7, this demonstrates how successful combined sports can be, Yohe said.

Yohe also reported that the district hopes to begin construction on its Capital Improvement Project in April. She noted that preliminary work will be necessary before relocating spaces like the cafeteria. “We need to assess what needs to happen first before any moves can take place,” she explained.

Yohe also addressed progress on the district’s electric bus study with the Clymer and Panama Districts. Also, she said they have received about 30 applicants for the computer tech position, which will be narrowed down to 15 before beginning interviews.

Looking to enhance student involvement, Yohe announced plans to establish a student advisory team. Representatives from grades five through 12 will meet regularly with her to share insights and feedback. “The students need more voice,” she said.