Washtenaw ISD provides early childhood and special education services from birth through age 26 across Washtenaw County. Our district aims to provide exceptional service to each young child, student, and family we support.
To advise the WISD Board of Education on matters pertaining to special education; and
To fulfill those responsibilities designated in PA 451. The PAC also facilitates communication, awareness, and involvement between parents, local districts, Boards of Education/Boards of Directors and the Intermediate School District.
Transition Services
The ultimate goal of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD), Special Education Department is the successful transition of all students from school to post-school activities - whether postsecondary education, vocational training, integrated employment, continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living or community participation.
Transition planning is the foundation for IEP planning process. The purpose of this website is to assist all stakeholders (students, teachers, families, and other school personnel) in developing and implementing the Transition IEP and transition planning throughout the secondary years.
Location:Work and Play Cafe, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Every first Thursday of the month. Sit, relax, have a cup of coffee and chat with other parents and caregivers. RSVP NOT REQUIRED.
3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Theatre BE - Mini Session
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Apprenticeship Fair - Job DeveloperAlliance
Location:Ypsilanti Community High School, 2095 Packard St, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Come ready to interact with industry professionals
Location:Ann Arbor YMCA, 400 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Description
This will be an inclusive and empowering experience tailored for individuals aged 18 and above with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). Join us for a welcoming atmosphere where you can discover the joy of movement, build confidence, and celebrate your abilities in a supportive community! We will warm up, learn some dance fundamentals, and have a great time moving together to some fun music! Movements will be adapted to your abilities - all are welcome! If you are in need of 1:1 support in order to get the most out of this class, please bring a family member, friend, or staff member to help - this class is led by only one instructor.
This session will end in a recital on May 10th at Slauson Middle School Auditorium. Participation in the recital is optional. Some dance classes will choose costumes, which will be an additional cost and added to your Y account in April. We will try to keep the cost for costumes under $60.00. More information will be sent in the coming months. Please direct any questions to jbaca@annarborymca.org
*No class January 25 or March 29*
Registration
Member
In House ends on Jan 19, 2025 Online ends on Jan 19, 2025
Non-Member
In House ends on Jan 19, 2025 Online ends on Jan 19, 2025
TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer) is a community-based training program for young athletes with disabilities.
Age Range: Open
4
May 4
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Bowling Fundraiser - Work and Play
Location:Station 300 Saline, 830 Woodland Dr E, Saline, MI 48176, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Time & Location
May 04, 2025, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Station 300, 830 Woodland Dr E, Saline, MI 48176, USA
About the event
Join us for a fun day of bowling, pizza and pop at Station 300! We are hosting a Bowling Fundraiser on Sunday, May 4th, from 1 PM to 3 PM at Station 300 Saline (830 Woodland Dr, Saline)! Tickets are $25 and you get to enjoy two games of bowling, pizza, shoes, and unlimited pop—all while supporting a great cause.
This event isn’t just about strikes and spares! We’ll also have raffle baskets filled with amazing prizes, so be sure to come ready to buy some tickets for a chance to win. Come out for a fun afternoon with friends and family while making a difference. See you at the lanes!
Supporting Positive Growth: A Behavior is Communication Series is a free, hybrid program designed for parents and caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages. This series explores how behavior serves as a form of communication and offers trauma-informed strategies to support positive growth. Participants will learn relationship-based approaches to encourage connection and prevent challenging behaviors in home, school, and community settings.
Jan 19, 2025 : Prevention Strategies for Positive Behavior
Feb 16, 2025 : Routines & Expectations: Setting Up for Behavioral Success
Mar 16, 2025 : Shaping Behavior Through Adult Language
Apr 27, 2025 : Strengthening the School/Family Relationship
May 04, 2025 : Effective Parent Meetings
Sep 21, 2025 : Prevention Strategies for Positive Behavior
Oct 19, 2025 : Understanding and Disengaging the Stress Response
Obtaining Assistive Technology through MI Medicaid Supports Waiver & MIChoice Waiver
Calendar:Community Events
The presentation will explore how to obtain assistive technology (AT) through Michigan’sHabilitation Supports Waiver (HSW) and MIChoice Waiver. We will outline steps to requestAT, strategies to strengthen approval chances and how to navigate denials and appeals.
Register in advance to reserve a spot (use the same link for all monthly AT Talks): Zoom Registration Closed captioning will be provided. Please inform us of any needed accommodation.
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Prom
Calendar:WISD Calendar
9
10
May 10
11:00 AM to 11:45 AM
Adaptive Dance Recital - Ann Arbor YMCA
Location:Ann Arbor YMCA, 400 W Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Description
This will be an inclusive and empowering experience tailored for individuals aged 18 and above with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). Join us for a welcoming atmosphere where you can discover the joy of movement, build confidence, and celebrate your abilities in a supportive community! We will warm up, learn some dance fundamentals, and have a great time moving together to some fun music! Movements will be adapted to your abilities - all are welcome! If you are in need of 1:1 support in order to get the most out of this class, please bring a family member, friend, or staff member to help - this class is led by only one instructor.
This session will end in a recital on May 10th at Slauson Middle School Auditorium. Participation in the recital is optional. Some dance classes will choose costumes, which will be an additional cost and added to your Y account in April. We will try to keep the cost for costumes under $60.00. More information will be sent in the coming months. Please direct any questions to jbaca@annarborymca.org
*No class January 25 or March 29*
Registration
Member
In House ends on Jan 19, 2025 Online ends on Jan 19, 2025
Non-Member
In House ends on Jan 19, 2025 Online ends on Jan 19, 2025
What Happens Now? Understanding Special Education Rights Amid Uncertainty
Calendar:Community Events
As conversations around dismantling the U.S. Department of Education intensify, fear and confusion are rising in the disability community. Families are asking:
“Are IEPs going away?”
“What happens to IDEA and ADA without federal oversight?”
“Will schools still be held accountable for providing support?”
Join us for a crucial conversation with Wayne Steedman, Esq., one of the nation’s most respected special education attorneys, as he provides clarity, context, and legal insight during these uncertain times.
With decades of experience representing children with disabilities and educating families through his national work with Wrightslaw, Mr. Steedman will address the current landscape and help families understand their rights—now and moving forward.
Topics include:
The impact (if any) of federal changes on IDEA, IEPs, and ADA
Free Community Movie Night - Council for Exceptional Children
Location:Washtenaw Intermediate School District, 1819 S Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Intelligent Lives
About the Film - stars three pioneering young American adults with intellectualdisabilities – Micah, Naieer, and Naomie – who challenge perceptions of intelligence as they navigatehigh school, college, and the workforce. Academy Award-winning actor and narrator Chris Coopercontextualizes the lives of these central characters through the emotional personal story of his son Jesse,as the film unpacks the shameful and ongoing track record of intelligence testing in the U.S.
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Transition Services Parent Workshop
Location:Zoom
Calendar:WISD Upcoming Events
Washtenaw Intermediate School District, in collaboration with Michigan Rehabilitation Services, Disability Network and Community Mental Health, presents:
Agency Transition Services Parent Workshop
Come speak with representatives from local support agencies that provide a variety of support needs from health, employment, recreation and more. Providers will be here to answer questions you may have in making choices for the services that are right for your student.
(Dinner will be served.)
Washtenaw Intermediate School District 1819 S. Wagner Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Thursday, May 15, 2025 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Zoom Link Meeting ID: 968 4685 8770 - Passcode: 164214
Please RSVP via Email - transitionservices@washtenawisd.org OR Call - 734-994-8100 x 1520
For more information call: (734) 994-8100 x1521 Email: jtaylor@washtenawisd.org
Are you ready to leave for college or be out on your own? Are you prepared to do adult tasks and have skills to be successful? Michigan State University Extension's Adulting 101 programs help teenagers and young adults demystify the obscure reality of being an “adult” through engaging educational sessions. Each FREE session is packed full of important life skills and tools necessary to live independently!
Join us for a 4-H Adulting 101 session on personal safety in all settings-from hiking trails and public parks to bustling cities and college campuses. We will cover practical strategies to help you stay aware, prepared, and confident no matter where you go. Learn tips for situational awareness, staying connected, and handling emergencies. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools you need to feel secure in any environment. Stay safe out there and let's learn how to do it together!
Accommodations
Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Learn about Intentional Communities of Washtenaw (ICW)
Location:Washtenaw Intermediate School District, 1819 S Wagner Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48106, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Please join us for an in-depth
look at ICW including:
Who we are
What we do
Parent perspective
Future of ICW
ICW family members will be
available for Q&A.
Bring all your questions!
ICW’s Mission
To promote stable and sustainable quality of life for adults with developmental disabilities, designed to reduce isolation and develop skills to live interdependently in a community setting.
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Club SkyWild
Location:Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar:Community Events
Welcome to Club SkyWild
Club SkyWild is a unique social program for neurodivergent adults (ages 18+) designed to foster connection, creativity, and fun. Held the third Wednesday of each month from 7–9 PM in Ypsilanti, MI, participants enjoy a vibrant mix of activities, from painting and cooking classes, to game tournaments, to laid-back chats in a cozy quiet room. Upon arrival, you'll receive SkyWild Dollars called "Hollars" to spend on snacks, drinks, and activities, letting you practice money management while having a blast. Whether you're crafting, cooking, or just catching up with friends, Club SkyWild is a welcoming space to relax, learn new skills, and explore your creativity.
Drop-In Rate: $25 per session Pay as you go and join us for any session that fits your schedule!
6-Session Package: $125 Save by purchasing a 6-session package! This flexible option allows you to attend any six sessions of your choice over time.
Both options include access to all activities, snacks, drinks, and the full Club SkyWild experience.
22
May 22
3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Theatre BE - Mini Session
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
23
24
25
26
27
May 27
5:00 PM to 6:30 PM
WISD Board of Education Regular Meeting
Location:1819 S. Wagner Road, Ann Arbor, MI. 48103
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Theatre BE - Mini Session
Date:May 29
Time:3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
Are you ready to leave for college or be out on your own? Are you prepared to do adult tasks and have skills to be successful? Michigan State University Extension's Adulting 101 programs help teenagers and young adults demystify the obscure reality of being an “adult” through engaging educational sessions. Each FREE session is packed full of important life skills and tools necessary to live independently!
Anticipating future travel plans abroad? Tap into strategies for international traveling on a budget to ensure you reach your next destination overseas.
Accommodations
Michigan State University is committed to providing equal opportunity for participation in all programs, services and activities. Accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting the event contact two weeks prior to the start of the event. Requests received after this date will be honored whenever possible.
Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Theatre BE - End of Session Party
Date:Jun 5
Time:3:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Location:Washtenaw/Ann Arbor DNWML, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor, 48108, United States
Calendar:Community Events
Join Theatre Be as we laugh and learn together!
We’ll be spending each week in this mini session playing theatre games, exploring scene building and improv, and expressing ourselves through acting. We’ll have a supportive and friendly environment where the rules are simple: BE yourself and BE encouraging!
There will NOT be a performance in the mini session; instead we will be having and end of session party for our company!
Every Thursday from May 1 to June 5. June 5th will be the End-of-Session Party
Ages 14+ and all abilities welcome.
No registration required
Program Flyer:Theatre Be Mini Session
Work and Play Disabiliy Community Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Color Our World: Inclusive Summer Art Program - Work and Play
Date:Jun 9
Time:12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Location:Work and Play Disabiliy Community Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar:Community Events
About the event
Get ready for a vibrant and joy-filled summer of creativity, connection, and self-expression at the Work and Play Disability Community Center! Led by Lelaina MacDonald, this six-week inclusive art program is designed specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities who want to explore a variety of artistic styles and mediums in a supportive, sensory-friendly environment.
Participants will dive into hands-on projects like puppet-making, rock painting, wind chimes, mixed-media collages, “zoo in a bottle” creations, and more. Each week brings a new opportunity to express feelings, build confidence, and have fun through art.
🖌️ Two Age Groups Available:
Youth Ages 8–18: Mondays from 12:00–1:30 PM **
Adults 18+: Mondays from 1:30–3:00 PM (with options to assist with youth sessions too!) **
** We will offer a few Fridays for artists to complete projects if needed.
An interactive therapeutic music experience designed for individuals with a range of special needs. The camp will provide a unique, five-day learning environment where participants can engage in structured musical jams focusing on vocals, instruments, and drum circles. There is a performance for all campers on the last day of camp.
Camp Highlights:
Five days of hands-on music activities, art, and dance
Focus on vocals, instruments, and drum circles
Open to individuals ages 8 and older
No prior musical experience necessary
Instruments provided for all participants
Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate
Times: 10-12pm and 1-3pm Recommended Ages: 8 and up Director: Steve Oz of Oz Music, Ann Arbor Location: Eastern Michigan Music School Cost: $290 per session (morning or afternoon) or $495 for all day 10-3pm
An interactive therapeutic music experience designed for individuals with a range of special needs. The camp will provide a unique, five-day learning environment where participants can engage in structured musical jams focusing on vocals, instruments, and drum circles. There is a performance for all campers on the last day of camp.
Camp Highlights:
Five days of hands-on music activities, art, and dance
Focus on vocals, instruments, and drum circles
Open to individuals ages 8 and older
No prior musical experience necessary
Instruments provided for all participants
Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate
Times: 10-12pm and 1-3pm Recommended Ages: 8 and up Director: Steve Oz of Oz Music, Ann Arbor Location: Eastern Michigan Music School Cost: $290 per session (morning or afternoon) or $495 for all day 10-3pm
Our School Strives To Ensure Our Website Is Accessible To All Our Visitors
Washtenaw ISD is committed to providing a website that is fully accessible and we are currently in the process of developing a new website to better meet the needs of our customers. Our new website will include improvements to ADA compliance and accessibility, and during this transition, we remain committed to maintaining our existing website's accessibility and usability.
It is the policy and commitment of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, height, weight, familial status, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any legally protected characteristic, in its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment policies in accordance with Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, executive order 11246 as amended, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and all other pertinent state and Federal regulations.
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