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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.

  • Program Specialists

    Jessica Garcia

    Renee Nickerson

    School Psychologists

    Amanda Kaufman

    Khalilah Fortenberry 

    Ryan Clancy

    Susan Warda

    Valerie Pennebaker

    District Nurse

    Kathy Schalin

    LVN

    Ulyssess Avena

  • Behaviorists

    Rathi Kalyanaraman
    Adriana Montano

    Inclusion Specialist

    Tiffany Ng

    Occupational Therapists

    Cathy Dox
    Jenn May

    Speech & Language Pathologists

    Sarah Arviso
    Sarah Daymon
    Tiffany Fong
    Kate Grillo
    Kaylie Hogland
    Ahnna Monsler
    Hailey Xil