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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The Critter Caravan arrived at Rye Lake Campus, giving students in the Extended School Year program the opportunity to get an up-close look - and feel - of our animal friends.
The 2025-26 school year brings exciting changes for students, staff and families across Southern Westchester BOCES’ Special Services programs. From new school locations to new faces helping to lead programs, the realignment reflects ongoing efforts to meet the needs of students while adapting to the usual pace of change. “We are consistently focused on enhancing instruction both in and outside the classroom to better equip students for success throughout their educational journey at SWBOCES and beyond," Director Jessica Walker says.
The Tarrytown Fire Department visited Rye Lake Lower Campus, providing a wonderful opportunity for Extended School Year students to meet the firefighters and explore the firetruck. Special thanks to Rye Lake staff member and fire department volunteer Isabella Morabito for her support in arranging this fun and educational summer activity!
Kris’s class enjoyed a field trip to the bowling alley. They practiced cooperative play skills such as taking turns, sharing, and communicating with peers. They were surprised by two SWBOCES graduates. The students loved catching up with old friends.
Students in Ms. Churchill’s class took a field trip during the Center for Special Services' Summer ESY program! The students watched a social story about what to do at the grocery store before boarding the bus! Once off the bus, the students were given a list of items to find throughout the store. The students searched with their staff member for the items pictured and recorded the aisle number and the price of each item. The students practiced pushing the carts and placing items carefully in the baskets. In addition, the students had the opportunity to select a snack of choice to keep in our classroom. Lastly, the students used the self checkout lanes to scan and follow the prompts on the screen to purchase their items! All of the students did a wonderful job!
Students in the AIIM and MD programs at the Rye Lake Lower Campus had a blast cooling off during water play in the sprinklers. It was the perfect way to beat the summer heat and enjoy some outdoor fun.
Rye Lake Lower Campus AIIM students are working on the Unique Learning System's Summer Unit: At the Amusement Park. As they explore the physical science behind the way things move, they are also identifying summer recreational activities and common food items (i.e. popcorn, ice cream, cotton candy, etc), rides, games, and other attractions (i.e. fireworks) they may see at a carnival or amusement park. Those pictured are engaging in a popcorn and firework craft activity.
"It is wonderful to see students in Ms. Tiffany's class working so diligently and acclimating to their new teacher," Principal Jonathan Remeny said. "The entire staff work so well with students, supporting their needs while having fun!"
