Special Education

Hands together

Our Philosophy

The Ellenville Central School District promises to provide appropriate instruction and support to all our students. We strive to foster an environment that helps all children reach their full potential.

Our district staff includes general education teachers, special education teachers, teaching assistants, classroom aides, school psychologists, school social workers, school counselors, behavior analyst, speech/language therapists, and other experts.  Our staff is available to provide services and programming at no cost to our families. 

We believe that family members play a crucial role in the education of our students.  When parents, guardians, families, and schools work collaboratively we know that all Ellenville students can achieve their highest potential.  

If you feel like your child needs special education services it is important that you speak with their teacher(s), school counselor, and/or building administrator.  They can help you access the additional support your child may need.  If your child continues to experience difficulties they can be referred to the Committee on Special Education (CSE) for an evaluation. When a student is determined to need the support of a specialized special education service or program, the committee will develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) designed to meet their unique needs.

Your Rights

You have the right to be a part of all decisions regarding your child’s program. You and the Committee on Special Education will meet regularly, and you are welcome to bring an Advocate or other representative.  You and the CSE will meet regularly to discuss your child’s progress and make necessary recommendations and amendments to their program.  

Special Education Program Descriptions - Continuum of Services

Our goal is to support students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment. To enable students with disabilities to be educated in the most appropriate setting, the Ellenville Central School District offers a continuum of services and supports. These include: 

CONTACT US

Jessica Mataraza
Director of Pupil Personnel Services
(845) 647-0110

Kristen Rabadi
Assistant Director for Special Education 
(845) 647-0200 Ext. 288

Theresa Sheeley
School Psychologist
K-6 Special Education Coordinator
(845) 647-0200 Ext. 584

Sabrina Decker
Senior Typist
CPSE & K-6 In-District SWD
(845) 647-0110

Amanda Wood
Senior Typist
Grades 7-12 In-District SWD
Out of District SWD
(845) 647-0112

Gabriela McCombs
Clerical
Transportation/Billing/Records
(845) 647-0200, Ext. 429

Transition Resources:

  • ACCES-VR (Vocational Rehabilitation): ACCES-VR assists individuals with disabilities to achieve and maintain employment and to support independent living through training, education, rehabilitation, and career development. 

  • Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD): NYS OPWDD is responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other neurological impairments.

Additional Resources: