Special Education

Waterloo Central School operates a variety of educational programs for students with educational disabilities. Special education services are provided to students whose academic difficulties are the result of a documented disability. To be identified as such, a student must meet State mandated criteria in one of thirteen categories.

The Board of Education appoints a Committee of Special education (CSE) to conduct comprehensive evaluations for students who have been referred. If the information gathered during the evaluation supports classification according to NYS Education Law, CSE will then develop an Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) to address the educational needs of the student. If the student is deemed ineligible for services, CSE is obligated to make recommendations to the building principal to address the learning needs of the student. It is important to note that not all students who are experiencing problems are eligible for special education services.

Most students with disabilities attend one of the Waterloo Central Schools. Services are provided to the maximum degree possible within the regular education environment, although some students require a portion of their instruction in the special education classroom. A small percentage of students have educational needs that can only be met in a program operated by BOCES.

Preschool children may also be eligible for special education services, through a similar process overseen by the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). Any parent who believes a preschool child may have a disability should call the CSE/CPSE Office, at 539-1503.

Parents or community members who have questions about special education are encouraged to call the CSE Office at 539-1503. The office is located at 109 Washington Street.