Student Services, Equity & Inclusion
Services
The Department of Student Services, Equity & Inclusion provides a multidisciplinary team approach when evaluating students to determine need for specialized instruction and/or serviceThis team approach is sustained when providing special education services to children who meet eligibility requirements. Special education services are available to all students who may qualify from age three through the completion of eighth grade. Our goal is to provide an appropriate level of services and supports that will enable each student to demonstrate academic growth. We believe that a collaborative partnership between school and home will best serve all students who attend Winnetka Public Schools. We are committed to:
- Identifying students who may need specialized instruction early and then developing appropriate interventions as warranted.
- Creating and implementing Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for students who require special education services.
- Providing a continuum of services within the least restrictive environment (LRE) where students who require special education services will have opportunity to receive instruction in general education classrooms to the greatest extent possible.
District Services for Preschool-Aged Children
District families with children ages 3, 4 or 5 years old who are concerned regarding their child’s development may request an early childhood screening. District 36 is partnering with TrueNorth (formerly NSSED) for screenings, and they are held monthly by TrueNorth. The screening is a quick assessment of motor skills, cognitive and pre academic skills, and speech/language development. Results from this screening will determine if further evaluation is warranted.
TrueNorth Educational Cooperative 804 (formerly NSSED)
The Winnetka Public Schools District 36 is a member of the TrueNorth (formerly NSSED) special education cooperative. TrueNorth provides specialized programming and services to our students who require more support than that typically offered in a public school. This includes, but is not limited to, early childhood programs, educational and life skills (ELS) programs, therapeutic day school programs, services for students who have autism spectrum disorders. Assistive technology assessments and services are also available. TrueNorth also provides professional development opportunities and consultation services to school faculty and staff.
Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization (NSSEO)
The Winnetka Public Schools District 36 is a member of the Northwest Suburban Special Education Organization (NSSEO). NSSEO provides diagnostic and itinerant services for students who have hearing impairments and also provides specialized programs for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.