Special Education

We are committed to identifing, evaluating, and supporting students with disabilities to ensure they receive the services and accommodations they need to succeed.

We offer specialized instruction, and a range of services designed to meet the unique learning needs of our students, wherever they are.  Whenever possible, students learn alongside their peers in their neighborhood schools, with the resources and support needed to help them succeed. We believe every child deserves to be included, valued, and supported in reaching their full potential. Our team is here to partner with you in making that happen. 

What We Offer

Our Special Education Department provides services for:

  • Infants and toddlers (Birth to Age 3)
  • Developmental Preschool & Transition to Kindergarten (Ages 3-4)
  • School-based special education services (PreK – Grade 12)
  • Community-Based Transitions Program (Ages 18-21)

 

Partnering with Families

We believe that parents and guardians are essential partners in their child’s education. Decisions about services and program placement are made through the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, where families collaborate with teachers and specialists to develop a plan tailored to their child’s needs.

Our Commitment

The Monroe School District is committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities:

  • Receive the support they need to achieve academically
  • Have access to high-quality educational opportunities
  • Are prepared for future employment and post-secondary education

Services and Programs

We offer a range of special education services and programs designed to meet the unique needs of every learner. Services are based on a student’s IEP and delivered through different types of programs, depending on individual goals and needs. Not all schools offer every program, and placement decisions are made as part of the IEP process. 

Every student’s plan is individualized through the IEP process and based on their strengths, needs, and goals. 

Services

Services are the supports a student receives—like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or specially designed instruction. These services are written into a student's IEP and can happen in any classroom or school setting. 

Explore Services

Programs

Programs are the types of learning environments where services are delivered. Some programs support students mostly in general education classrooms, while others offer more specialized instruction in smaller, structured settings.

Explore Programs

How to Request an Evaluation

Parents and guardians who believe their child may need special education services can request an evaluation at any time. To start the process:

  1. Contact your child's teacher, school counselor, or principal, or
  2. Submit a written request for an evaluation to one of our Student Services staff members, listed below.

We will then review the request and determine the next steps in the evaluation process.

Parent and Student Rights

Families have the right to:

  • Request an evaluation for special education services.
  • Be involved in the development of their child’s IEP.
  • Receive services in the least restrictive environment (LRE) possible.
  • Access dispute resolution options if concerns arise.

For more details on your rights under IDEA and Washington State law, visit:

Contact Us

We are here to support every learner and ensure all students receive the education and services they need to thrive.

Kathy Ablutz, Student Services Coordinator
ablutzk@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2601

Joy Castillo, Student Services Director
castilloj@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2603

Camille House, Student Services Support
housec@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2600

David Paratore, Chief Student Services Officer
paratored@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2609