WPS Special Education

Special Education Department

Marlena Ysalguez, Director of Special Education
mysalguez@winchesterps.org
781-721-7000 x1005

Chris Campbell, Assistant Director of Special Education & Out-of-District Coordinator
ccampbell@winchesterps.org
781-382-8132

Jean O’Halloran, Administrative Assistant
johalloran@winchesterps.org
781-721-7000 x1005

 

Our Mission

The mission of the Winchester Public Schools Special Education Department, in collaboration and consultation with building-based teams, is to help students understand their learning differences and develop skills and compensatory strategies in order to become independent learners.

As a department, we strive to foster collaborative and cooperative relationships, respect for individual differences, develop a sense of health and emotional well-being, and the maintenance of a purposeful and rigorous academic program. We want our students to gain an understanding of their own learning styles so that they can learn to advocate for themselves. Special Education staff work in a collaborative manner to develop ways to modify curriculum and assessment practices while maintaining high expectations.

As a district, we promote ‘best practice ’ with inclusion for all. Our goal is to present each student with challenging but attainable learned.

Special Education Supervisors

 

WPS District Wide Language-Based Learning Program

In the spring of 2021, the Winchester Public Schools (WPS) requested a review of our Language-based Learning Program (LB program) be done by the Integrated Center for Child Development (ICCD). As stated in the document, "the purpose of this review was to obtain an objective analysis of the program, including the instructional model, curriculum, and service delivery. In a meeting with the Administrator of Special Education, the consultants determined that a comprehensive review would require careful examination of all elements of the program, including entry and exit criteria, classroom procedures, presentation and delivery of service, curriculum and materials, connectivity between classrooms and schools, professional development, oversight, and internal and external communication across the program and with parents and the community. To this end, the consultants examined related documents, observed classroom teaching, designed and distributed questionnaires, and conducted interviews with stakeholders. This report includes an analysis of data, along with recommendations formulated to address areas of identified concern.

More information on our next steps in how we will be considering and utilizing the information and recommendations provided in the review, including a 'plan-to-plan,' will be provided at a later date.

The Winchester Parent Advisory Council (WinPAC)

The Winchester Parent Advisory Council (WinPAC) is a state-mandated group of parents and guardians who work with teachers, administrators, and the Winchester School Committee to provide:

  • Opportunities for caregivers and educators to learn about special education, including the laws and regulations that protect a child receiving services under an individualized education plan (IEP);

  • Information about resources available to help children be successful, including educational materials, national support groups, speakers, technical assistance, enrichment activities, and professional services.

  • Avenues for caregivers to participate in the development and evaluation of Winchester's special education programs.

Quick Links

  • Child Find Program Public Notice

    It is the responsibility of the Winchester Public Schools to identify any child who is a resident of Winchester, who may have a disability, regardless of the severity of the disability. It is also the responsibility of the Winchester Public Schools to evaluate those students to determine if they are eligible for special education or related services under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) or 603 CMR 28 (Massachusetts Special Education Regulations).

    Child Find Program Public Notice

  • District Curriculum Accommodation Plan (DCAP)

    View DCAP