Students who are new to Berrien County must go to the district of
residence to start the enrollment process for their student. The
district will then refer students to the program that best meets the
needs of the individual student and is the least restrictive
environment. Students who currently attend a district in Berrien County
must contact their district Special Education Coordinator to discuss
whether Blossomland Learning Center is an appropriate option for their
student.
All students entering Blossomland Learning Center must
meet the requirements of Michigan Special Education Rules. An
Individualized Education Planning Committee (IEPC) meeting is held to
determine eligibility, students' needs, appropriate program, and
placement alternatives. Committee members include the parents,
Blossomland Learning Center administrator, local district
representative, MET representative, teacher(s), and ancillary
staff/therapist/parent representatives as needed. If Blossomland is
determined to be the appropriate placement alternative, the
parents/guardians then complete a series of building enrollment forms
including basic student data, transportation form, application for
school lunch, etc. In addition, the school will need the student's
health appraisal, copy of a birth certificate, immunization records,
various permissions, verification of residency, and a release of records
request. Office staff are available to assist parents/guardians through
this enrollment process.