Special ED of Schools around Seattle metro area (Edmonds, Snohomish: school district, moving)

[txcoconuts]

HI! I would like input on the Special Programs in public schools around the Seattle metro area. One of my children requires educational support. Moving from TX I am unfamiliar with the sped in WA state, any insight would be greatly appreciated.

Specifically some of our support needs include: OT, ST, Dyslexia specialist, aid, + (all from the mainstream environment)

Which schools would you avoid? etc.

Where is the reputation amazing? etc.

I think I really need to connect with some special needs sports and events as well.

Also, do individual schools in WA state generally have a full time school nurse? (REAL nurses, not a parent trained in first aid)

Thanks in advance!

[Jane917]

This is a tough one. I am an SLP, and have worked in WA for 15 years, in several different districts. I don't think I would discount any of the districts in the Seattle surrounding area, but I might avoid Seattle itself. I think Step 1 would be to get your most recent evaluation (WA re-evaluates every 3 years) and your IEP to the SPED director of the district of your choice. The district will review the IEP and determine if they can provide the services as stated on the IEP. All districts will be able to provide OT, ST, RR, etc, but as far as how the services are provided, this varies from district to district. I have never worked in a district that had a full time RN. I am sure the large schools have them, but I have never worked in a large school. Typically, the district has an RN, but each school is staffed with a Paraeducator under the supervision of the RN.

A 1:1 aid is doable, but rare, and has to be included in the IEP. More typically the child is placed in a Life Skills class with mainstreaming as appropriate. It is a team decision, so no one pattern fits all. It is probably a good idea to know the state rules and regulations (WACs). You can find them from the state education website, or I can send you a link if you can't find them.

The first thing that will happen (I think) is that the school team members will meet (with you) to have a transition meeting. At that meeting the team will decide what the school is able to offer in terms of what is written on the IEP. Even if services are identical, the IEP will probably be rewritten to conform to WA standards. If the 3 year evaluation is not current, or near to expiration, the school will likely re-evaluate before a new IEP is written.

I hope this answers some of your questions. To be honest, I am not familiar with the districts surrounding Seattle, though I know several people who work in the area.

Good luck in your search.

[txcoconuts]

That was such a helpful response! Good things. Thank you!

So what about areas a bit further out such as Snohomish, Northshore, or Riverview Schools? As I get further into this I realize I was focusing in areas more urban then I intended. I am looking for the family and nature vibe of a smaller community.

THanks!

[Jane917]

Originally Posted by txcoconuts

That was such a helpful response! Good things. Thank you!

So what about areas a bit further out such as Snohomish, Northshore, or Riverview Schools? As I get further into this I realize I was focusing in areas more urban then I intended. I am looking for the family and nature vibe of a smaller community.

THanks!

I have a friend who is an SLP is Riverview. She seems happy with the district. Northshore probably would have more to offer than Snohomish. Edmonds School District would be a great choice if you are looking north of Seattle.

You might want to call or e-mail the SPED director in districts you are interested in, and explain the services your child currently has. More than once in my career I have sat down with parents who have come to visit the schools and check out the SPED services.

[txcoconuts]

I noticed the Northshore website is chock full of info - which I hope means they are transparent and helpful! I also see some great reviews. I will take a look at the Edmonds website too!

I am so very happy to be headed to WA! The natural beauty - oh so amazing! I just know with some due diligence we will find the right community!

I really appreciate your helpfulness! Thank you!