The Essex Westford School District (EWSD) strives for excellence in equity and student achievement. We also work to foster safe and respectful learning environments for all students. Special education is one of many programs within the EWSD that supports students with disabilities in achieving their goals. 

Special Education is cleary defined through both Federal and State rules and regulations. These regulations mandate that every student receive:

• a free and appropriate public education regardless of disability.

• education provided in "least restrictive environment" possible

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) definies which students are eligible for services, etc., and each Local Education Agency (LEA), or supervisory union/district in Vermont, is reviewed annually to ensure they are compliant in their implementation of IDEA requirements. 

Students receiving services through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) have been identified as being in need of specially designed instruction and related services to address their unique educational needs. (See our Glossary of Terms & Acronyms page for more definitions, including more about IEPs.) The EWSD utilizes a team process to meet the needs of individual children, meaning that multiple teachers, administrators, and special educators are involved in decision making around desired academic outcomes for a student.

If you have specific questions about special education services or you believe that your child might benefit from an evaluation to determine eligibility, please speak with you child's teacher and/or principal.

• Glossary of Terms & Acronyms

• Special Education Parent Advisory Council (SEPAC)

• Resources for Families

• Staff Resources

• Child Find: Evaluations in Special Education