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.
Get started today on a career in education as a Teacher Aide. Make a difference in the lives of children. Apply right now online!
The day before the Thanksgiving Break was Student Wellness Day for SWBOCES at Transfiguration School. A range of fun wellness activities was on tap, and smiles were shining throughout the school.
Students participated in Student Wellness Day at Transfiguration today.
Yoga, sensory activities and our own Thanksgiving parade were held during our half day session.
Students and staff had a wonderful time!
Special thanks to all our staff that supported this event, especially Coach Diane Storm!
Happy Thanksgiving! See you on Monday, December 1!
Twenty-three students were recognized for their academic achievement during an Honor Roll ceremony at Rye Lake Middle-High School Nov. 21. The quarterly recognition event demonstrates the high value placed on student achievement and sends the message to students that their efforts are valued and their success is seen and appreciated. Read the names and see pictures from the event at the link above.
Who says Thanksgiving has to be a serious holiday? Rye Lake Lower Campus staff made it fun and festive for students with their Inflatables Parade on Tuesday, Nov. 25. There were dinosaurs, chickens, a frog, reindeer and even Principal Remeny and Assistatn Principal Salka as a turkey and a unicorn, respectively. Happy Thanksgiving to all!
The Rye Lake Middle-High School Thanksgiving Community Feast, held on Tuesday, Nov. 25, featured holiday fare all prepared and served by our talented staff. Wishing everyone a happy and peace-filled Thanksgiving Holiday!
Students at Rye Lake Lower Campus teamed up with volunteers from YAI in November to create thoughtful thank-you gifts for our amazing Campus Bus Team.
The SWBOCES at Transfiguration School Thanksgiving Food Drive was a resounding success, collecting an amazing 673 pounds of donated items to benefit local families through Feeding Westchester.
With the help of students like Keren, pictured helping to post flyers around the school, the Thanksgiving Food Drive ended on Friday, Nov. 21. Transfiguration families and staff at the Tarrytown school donated. Items requested included canned gravy, canned corn, stuffing, cranberry sauce, corn bread, rolls & biscuits, white rice, canned yams, mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese.
"I'm heartened by the show of generosity and student engagement this food drive has brought out in our Transfiguration community," Principal Francesca Fernandez. "Knowing we are helping our neighbors in need at this holiday time is a precious gift in itself."
SWBOCES at Irvington staff honored students who earned a place on the Honor, Merit, or Recognition Roll, celebrating their hard work, dedication, and commitment to learning.
“Achieving this distinction is no small accomplishment, and we are incredibly proud of every student who met these academic milestones,” said Principal Julia Dolan.
Each month, staff also nominate one Middle School and one High School student who exemplify one or more of the following qualities:
Good Citizenship—Helps without being asked; shows kindness and respect toward others
Positive Attitude—Puts forth strong effort without seeking recognition
Outstanding Character—Strives to do what is right
Academic Responsibility—Actively engages in learning by completing assignments and participating in class
Additional considerations include making safe and responsible choices, showing significant improvement in grades or behavior, demonstrating notable kindness or empathy, and being involved in the school or broader community. The Middle and High School Students of the Month were recognized during Friday’s celebration as well.
Students received certificates, and Guidance Counselor Veronica Valencia showcased their achievements on the bulletin board outside her office.
Holiday Recess No School
Holiday Recess No School
Holiday Recess
Holiday Recess
Holiday Recess
