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Walnut Creek School District

Engage, Inspire, and Empower ALL Learners!

Special Education Overview

The words 'Special Education' are displayed over a blurred image of a classroom.

The mission of the Special Education Department is to provide high quality, research-based education in the least restrictive environment to enable all students to realize their maximum potential.

The department encompasses a variety of services in the areas of Special Education, Related Services, Auxiliary Services, and 504 Plans. WCSD provides high-quality education for all students. All individuals have the right to receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE), including those with disabilities.

The district provides special education instruction and services in accordance with the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Students with disabilities are placed in the least restrictive environment.

Parents who have concerns about their child's progress should confer with their child’s teacher. 


 

CHILD FIND

Child Find is a component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that requires districts to locate, identify, and evaluate all children with disabilities, aged 2.9 through 21, who are in need of special education services. Parents of preschool-aged students, age 2.9-5 who have concerns about their child, can contact the Special Education Department at (925)944-6850 ext. 2023 to request information on screening, evaluation, or eligibility.

  • Jessica Garcia, Program Specialist

    Renee Nickerson, Program Specialist


    Amanda Kaufman, School Psychologist

    Khalilah Fortenberry, School Psychologist

    Ryan Clancy, School Psychologist

    Susan Warda, School Psychologist

    Valerie Pennebaker, School Psychologist
     

    Kathy Schalin, District Nurse

    Ulyssess Avena, LVN

  • Rathi Kalyanaraman, Behaviorist

    Adriana Montano, Behaviorist
     

    Cathy Dox, Occupational Therapist

    Jenn May, Occupational Therapist


    Sarah Arviso, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Sarah Daymon, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Tiffany Fong, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Kate Grillo, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Kaylie Hogland, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Ahnna Monsler, Speech/Language Pathologist

    Hailey Xil, Speech/Language Pathologist