Southern Westchester BOCES Center for Special Services programs support the needs of students with disabilities by offering specialized instruction tailored to the learning needs, individualized educational plans and life goals of each student. Our six school programs offer environments in which social emotional and academic learning are integrated so that students develop confidence, self-esteem, self-reliance, and resiliency. We believe a growth mindset is the key to progress.
Our classrooms feature small staff-to-student ratios that provide for individualized support and attention. Staff and students develop positive learning communities where students can connect with peers and form friendships.
Our curriculum is aligned with New York State and Next Generation standards which aids in a smooth transition when students may be ready to return to their home districts. Our instructional professionals implement a comprehensive program that accounts for unique student learning styles and needs. Programs are therapeutic in nature and build in positive behavior supports and reinforcement.
Our clinicians and related service providers include psychologists, social workers, school counselors, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, teachers of reading and the deaf and visually impaired and crisis intervention specialists. Transition is a primary focus so school counselors and social workers support students and families in planning and readiness for returning to district or post-secondary experiences, including adult programming, vocational placements and college or career training. Our work with families is paramount to our students’ success. We partner with them in navigating community supports and services.
The Center is comprised of six schools on five campuses. Each program serves a diverse group of students ages 5-21 and offers opportunities in the visual arts, music instruction, technology, and physical education. Students also participate in health and wellness learning, community trips, and activities that build social skills.
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Dori Kiplock’s class at Tappan Hill Schol participated in recycling activities in their classroom during an Earth Day 2025 lesson.
The Rye Lake Lower Campus Garden Committee staged an Earth Day celebration, replete with seed planting, cold lemonade, decorations made of recycled materials, and a Bees & Flowers theme. With the sun shining and the mercury reaching 70 degrees, it was a perfect spring day for students and staff to take their learning outside.
The Science Fair Parent Engagement Event at Valhalla Center provided parents with an open house-style opportunity to celebrate students’ hard work, explore their projects, and engage in discussions about their learning.
A recent Work-Based Learning Parent Engagement Event at SWBOCES St. Matthew’s School in White Plains showed parents the work skills their children learn daily in the classroom and in the community. They also met with educators and business partners who provide work opportunities to students.
Melinda Pittis discussed several scenarios related to living with hearing loss during a presentation to English teacher Kathleen Shenenfield’s class at SWBOCES' Irvington High School-based Special Services location. “Imagine sitting in the classroom, trying to listen to a teacher,” said Ms. Pittis, a Teacher of the Deaf and Hearing Impaired. “You’re trying so hard to focus on what’s being said.” Students have been reading El Deafo, a loosely autobiographical graphic novel about author Cece Bell’s experience growing up with deafness.
Tappan Hill School celebrated their journey around the world over the past seven weeks, with a ‘We Are the World’ Concert. Led by the Westchester Conservatory of Music’s Mr. Donald Stevens, classes selected songs from around the world and performed for our school community. Deputy Superintendent Dr. Brendan Lyons and Director of Special Services Jessica Walker joined in on the fun, which included singing, dancing and plenty of smiles!
For the past several weeks, classes at Tappan Hill celebrated the various cultures and countries to which students and staff are connected. This took the form of instructional lessons, hands-on activities, celebrations and even visits by family members.
During an extended day activity, staff took part in appreciation restorative circles. Those pictured were facilitated by Social Workers Yolette Levy and Daniella Phelan. Check out all our connections!
Come to either of Penny Lick Ice Cream Co's locations in Mamaroneck (1212 W. Boston Post Rd.) or Hastings-on-Hudson (580 Warburton Ave.) on Friday, May 9. Penny Lick will donate 20% of sales to SWBOCES.
Memorial Day, School Closed
