Marion County Special Education Cooperative #617
About MCSEC
Marion County Special Education Cooperative (MCSEC) #617 is located in Marion, Kansas, providing specialized services to approximately 500 students and preschoolers across Marion County. We serve the following school districts:
- USD 397 Centre-Lost Springs
- USD 398 Peabody-BurnsUSD 408 Marion-Florence
- USD 408 Marion-Florence
- USD 410 Durham-Hillsboro-Lehigh
- USD 411 Goessel
Our dedicated team includes over 40 certified and clinical professionals, 100 paraeducators, and 5 office support staff members, all working to ensure students receive the individualized support they need to succeed.
MCSEC is governed by a Board of Directors composed of representatives from the boards of education of each of the five school districts. This board holds the same responsibilities and powers as a local board of education, except for the power to tax. Their duties include hiring staff, establishing policies, and overseeing budget expenditures to ensure the cooperative operates effectively and efficiently.
Infant Toddler Services of Kansas: Serving Marion County
As the lead agency for Infant Toddler Services of Kansas Program, serving Marion County, MCSEC is committed to supporting families and young children with developmental needs. All Marion County infants and toddlers who qualify can receive no-cost, in-home, early intervention services for developmental delays or disabilities. The licensed professionals partner with parents and caregivers to help each child make progress toward the family's desired goals. Together they create an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). This plan outlines the customized services to meet the needs of the child. Hope starts with a plan. Our team believes each child is unique. Each family's needs are different. Parents and caregivers are their child's best advocate. A child's brain grows rapidly in the first three years of life. It's important to support a child's learning during this time and address developmental needs early. Seeking help early can make a big difference for a child's future.
Project SEARCH: Expanding Opportunities
Since its launch in 2018, Project SEARCH, a partnership between MCSEC and Tabor College, has successfully helped older students with disabilities transition into the workforce. This hybrid program serves interns ages 18-30, providing hands-on experience through three internship rotations in various departments at Tabor College over the course of a school year.
Over the years, Project SEARCH has grown into a vital resource, equipping young adults in Marion County with essential skills and real-world experience to support their journey toward meaningful employment.
