Special Education

The Monroe School District is committed to providing a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to all students, age birth to 21, with disabilities in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Washington State law (RCW 28A.155). Our goal is to identify, evaluate, and support students with disabilities to ensure they receive the services and accommodations they need to succeed.

What We Offer

Our Special Education Department provides services for:

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

We ensure students receive individualized support in the least restrictive environment (LRE) possible, meaning they learn alongside their peers in their neighborhood school whenever appropriate. Depending on a student’s needs, services may be provided in:

  • General education classrooms with accommodations
  • Special education classrooms
  • Specialized programs outside of the district

Partnering with Families

We believe that parents and guardians are essential partners in their child’s education. Decisions about services and 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

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.
  2. Submit a written request for an evaluation to one of our Student Services staff members, listed below.
  3. The school district will 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.

Camille HouseStudent Services Support
housec@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2600

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

Shalla Mirkhani, Special Education Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA)
mirkhanis@monroe.wednet.edu
(360) 804-2604

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

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