WACSEP

Whittier Area Cooperative Special Education Program (WACSEP) is a dedicated special education initiative serving students with disabilities across seven member districts in southeastern Los Angeles County. Since 1971, WACSEP has focused on providing students with the dignity, respect, and individualized understanding necessary to thrive within their families and communities.

The program offers a comprehensive suite of therapeutic and educational services, including speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills groups. To support diverse learning profiles, WACSEP utilizes evidence-based methodologies such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and the Orton-Gillingham approach. These specialized instructional techniques are paired with low student-teacher ratios to ensure personalized attention and effective implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Beyond the classroom, WACSEP emphasizes community integration and life skills through vocational training and summer programs. The program also serves as a vital resource for families, providing essential information on parents' rights, procedural safeguards, and access to Family Empowerment Centers throughout California to help navigate the special education landscape.