Special Education

Our youngest learners are supported through Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE).

• Services are produced in home or community settings.
• Focus areas include early communication, social-emotional development, and motor skills.
• Families are essential partners in each child’s growth and development.

For children preparing to enter kindergarten, WAPS offers inclusive early learning opportunities.

• Small group and classroom-based services led by licensed ECSE staff
• Speech, OT, PT and social-emotional support integrated into the school day.
• Emphasis on readiness skills and positive peer interactions.

Our K–12 continuum provides individualized supports across all schools:

• Inclusion & Co-Teaching Models within general education classrooms.
• Resource Support for academic and behavioral needs.
• Specialized Programs for students requiring smaller settings or intensive services.
• Related Services such as speech/language, occupational and physical therapy, adaptive PE, psychological, and social work support.

Currently, WAPS serves approximately 780 students through Special Education services.

WAPS provides continued learning and transition programming until the day before a student’s 22nd birthday.

• Focus on employment readiness, community engagement, and independent living.
• Partnerships with local agencies and employers.
• Individualized plans to prepare students for adulthood with confidence and skill..

Section 504 is not a Special Education program but a civil rights law under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1975.

• Ensures access and equity for students with physical or mental impairments.
• Provides accommodations to support participation in general education.
• WAPS currently supports about 150 students through Section 504 plans.