Special Education Programs

Preschool 

Wallingford has the pleasure of providing preschool experiences for three and four year old students. The staff members of the Preschool believe that all children are unique in their learning style and can benefit from being exposed to a developmental curriculum. The Preschool provides an active, nurturing environment that fosters positive behaviors and independence.   Both three and four year old programs are offered in the district. 

For more information about the Wallingford Public Schools Preschool Program, contact,

W.I.S.E. at Highland and Mary G. Fritz

WISE (Wallingford Inter-district Special Education) is an alternative program provided for elementary age students with significant social-emotional needs.  The program includes a structured behavior management system with intensive mental health support from a school psychologist, social worker and BCBA. 

STARS at Cook Hill, Stevens and Pond Hill 

STARS is an alternative program provided for students with the need for intensive individualized instruction in all developmental areas.   

Alternative Route to Success (A.R.T.S.) Academy at Lyman Hall, Sheehan, Dag and Moran

A.R.T.S (Alternative Route to Success) is an alternative program provided for students with significant social-emotional needs at the Middle and High School level.  The program includes a structured behavior management system with intensive mental health support from a school psychologist, social worker, and psychiatrist.   

Wallingford Transition Academy (W.T.A.)

The WTA provides supported vocational experiences which will help increase employment opportunities and further independence.

program goals:

• To provide work experiences within the Wallingford community where job skills necessary for employment can be developed.
• To help students generalize appropriate attitudes and behaviors necessary for successful transitions into working environments.
• To guide students with self-assessment activities & perform situational assessments in order to explore their likes, dislikes, strengths, weaknesses & aptitudes.
• To provide real life experiences that promote problem solving, high order thinking skills and strategies necessary for successful transition to adult life.

Students participate in experiences at job sites in the local community, which have included these locations:

• All Pets Club
• Mobile Theatre & Security
• Gaylord Rehabilitation Hospital
• IGA East Center Market
• Olympia Sports
• Elizabeth’s Bakery
• Black Horse Stables
• The Breakfast Nook
• Walgreens
• Master's Manna Food Pantry

For information about the W.T.A., contact:

Kristen Wynus, Transition Specialist