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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On Friday, May 30th, St. Matts celebrated our inaugural Field Day at Pierson Park in Tarrytown. Students enjoyed various activities, including yoga with Coach Sarah, a musical celebration with Mr. R, our music teacher, and lots of fun field games. The students and staff also enjoyed a delicious barbecue lunch! We can't wait to have Field Day again next year!
Families, friends, educators and administrators packed the room at Valhalla Center on June 12 as four graduates were celebrated for the hard work, vibrant spirit and unique contributions that marked their time at Southern Westchester BOCES. “We are so incredibly proud of each and every one of you,” she said. “These are not just graduates, they are really, truly bright stars, each with a powerful story and a beautiful future.”
In a moving ceremony that marked the end of a chapter with new challenges to come, five members of the Rye Lake Campus High School graduating class were hailed by educators and embraced by family, all equally proud of their accomplishments. “Today marks not just the end of high school but the beginning of your next adventure,” Principal Eric Ford told graduates Connor Boyle, Olivia Corona, Arlinda Hoxhaj, Avery Thompson and Khianni Thomas.
The Rye Lake Campus Middle School Moving Up ceremony on June 12 recognized the successes and future triumphs of seven students who will embrace the challenges of high school in the fall.
At the St. Matthew’s School 2025 Graduation Ceremony on June 10, pride and joy filled the Luther Hall auditorium as families, staff, district leaders, and community partners gathered to honor a remarkable group of seven students. “These are not just graduates — they are bright stars, each with a powerful story and a beautiful future,” Ms. Dinzey said.
Rye Lake Lower Campus staff and AIIM students took advantage of a sunny June day to take the learning outdoors, spending a morning at the nearby Kensico Dam Plaza County Park.
There they engaged in a series of fun games and activities, organizing teams by class, complete with matching “team” T-shirts.
The Southern Westchester BOCES Special Services programs in Irvington celebrated not only the accomplishments but the educational journeys of seven eighth-graders who are moving up to high school in the fall. "We have every faith in your ability to shine brightly,” Principal Grant-Johnson told them.
Graduation Day was a one of a kind experience for Amber Rose Castillo. Surrounded by loved ones and cheered on by educators and peers, she was the sole graduate this June from the AIIM program at Rye Lake Lower Campus. "I want you to remember you have all of the tools to succeed," Teacher Tiffany Kittrell said. "We are so proud of you, and we will miss you a great deal. Continue to bloom, our Amber Rose."
