Educational Services
Herbert J. Lavigne Learning Center
Located on the Children’s Square Campus in Council Bluffs, Iowa
Empowering students with personalized support and care
Located on our Children’s Square Campus in Council Bluffs, the Herbert J. Lavigne Learning Center offers a specialized educational environment for students in grades 1–12 who face significant emotional and behavioral challenges. As one of only two Tier 3 special education schools in the Council Bluffs area, the Learning Center provides intensive, individualized support for students with complex needs.
This Iowa Department of Education-approved program is overseen by Council Bluffs Public Schools and offers a safe, structured setting where students receive instruction tailored to their academic level and behavioral goals.
Led by licensed special education teachers and trained support staff, the Lavigne Learning Center focuses on:
- Core academics with personalized learning plans
- Social and emotional development through structured support
- Life skills and problem-solving to build confidence and independence
- Interpersonal communication to foster healthy relationships
Our goal is to help every student thrive—academically, socially and emotionally—so they can build a brighter future.
“I have learned many important things at the Learning Center. One of the biggest is to never give up on your dreams.” – Tony, student
Where We’re Located
Herbert J. Lavigne Learning Center
520 North 7th Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503| Phone: 402.553.6000
School Details
Hours of Operation
Schools Hours: Monday 8:10am-12:30pm,
Tuesday-Friday 8:10am-2:30pm
Staff Hours: Monday-Friday 7:45am-3:45pm
Transportation is provided for students who live outside the immediate area by the student’s home school district.
Ages Served
Students in grades 1–12 (ages 6–18) with specialized educational and behavioral needs.
Application Process
Referral by an Iowa Public School
School Highlights
- All students have individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to academic and behavioral goals.
- Academic instruction is personalized to each student’s level, with a focus on keeping students on track to graduate.
- Credits earned at the school transfer to the student’s home school, where they officially graduate.
On-site Enrichment Activities
- Social-emotional learning groups
- Behavioral skill-building workshops
- Recreational activities
- Life skills training
- Opportunities for community engagement (when appropriate)
Program Leaders
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for placement at this school?
Students are referred by their home school districts due to specialized needs outlined in their IEPs. All students are Tier 3, often with behavioral disorders or high-risk profiles requiring intensive support.
What is a Tier 3 school?
Tier 3 schools provide the highest level of individualized academic and behavioral support. This program is designed for students who need specialized placement beyond what traditional public schools can offer.
How is progress tracked for each student?
Staff monitor both academic and behavioral progress each class period. When students are meeting their goals for at least a 6-week timeframe, transition planning begins to return them to their home school.
Do students graduate from this school?
Students earn credits here, but they officially graduate from their home school. The program ensures students stay on track academically while receiving the support they need.
Are students transported to and from school?
Yes. Transportation is provided by the student’s home school district.
What kind of staff work at the school?
All educators are certified special education teachers. The program emphasizes high-quality care and measurable outcomes for each student.
How can schools refer a student?
Referrals must come from the student’s current school district. The intake process includes a review and agreement on the student’s IEP and goals before placement.
