Mr. Tom Vogel, Director of Special Education and Human Resources
(414) 525-8404 tvogel@whitnall.com

Ms. Judy Besson, Secretary for Special Education
(414) 525-8440 jbesson@whitnall.com

The WHITNALL SCHOOL DISTRICT provides services for children with disabilities. The need for special education services is based upon data gathered by a multi-disciplinary team called an IEP Team. Parents of a child recommended for special education are involved throughout the screening and evaluation process, as well as in the development of an individual education plan (IEP) for their child.

The child-find provision of the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) states:
"All children with disabilities residing in the state, including children with disabilities who are homeless children or are wards of the state and children of disabilities attending private schools, regardless of the severity of their disabilities, and who are in need of special education and related services, are identified, located, and evaluated, and a practical method is developed and implemented to determine which children with disabilities are currently receiving needed special education and related services."

Information for Parents
Ms. Judy Besson, Secretary for Special Education (414) 525-8440 jbesson@whitnall.com

Department of Public Instruction
On the DPI Information Main Page you will find useful information on Special Education Plan Reports, Eligibility Criteria, Statewide Assessments as well as various publications and bulletin.

Statewide Agencies Supporting Wisconsin Families Who Have a Child with a Disability:

Wisconsin Statewide Parent-Educator Initiative (WSPEI) 1-877-844-4925
Purpose: WSPEI functions as part of a statewide network that supports all families and schools in building positive partnerships that enhance student learning. It promotes parent participation on IEP teams for children with disabilities as well as in school advisory functions.

Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training & Support (WIFACETS) 1-877-374-4677 Purpose: As one of two state Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIC), WI FACETS is dedicated to providing opportunities to enhance the quality of life for children and adults with disabilities and their families.

Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) 1-800-642-7837

Wisconsin First Step 1-800-642-STEP (7837)
Purpose: The purpose is twofold. WI First Step is the Central Directory for Wisconsin's Birth to Three Program. Secondly, it is the information and referral service to assist Wisconsin families who have children with special needs.

Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy (WCA) 1-800-708-3034 Purpose: All persons with disabilities and their families shall be empowered to exercise and enjoy the full extent of their rights to pursue the greatest possible quality of life.