Resources for Families

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.

Quick Links

The WISD Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) exists to serve two basic functions:

  • 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.

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.  

Upcoming Events in the Community

Community Agency Supports

Workshops & Webinars

Upcoming 25-26 WISD Transition Student and Parent/Guardian Workshops

Sept 2025 - Washtenaw Association for Community Advocacy September 30, 2025 5:30-6:30pm Medicaid Information, Social Security Benefits - washtenawaca.org

Oct 2025 - Transition Information Services Student and Parent Workshop October 23, 2025 9-11:30am Many agencies to speak and work with families - Join us on Zoom

March 2026 - Transition Law Night Workshop March 19, 2026 6-7:30pm Introduction to Postsecondary Transition Law/Information

April 2026 - MI Able Parent Workshop April 7, 2026 5:30-6:30pm Benefits for setting up MI Able accounts for your student's care and well-being - miable.org

May 2026 - Transition Information Services Student and Parent Workshop May 14, 2026 5-7:30pm Many agencies to speak and work with families - Join us on Zoom

For more information: call (734) 994-8100 ext. 1520 or email

Calendar

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What is happening the next 2 weeks.

September 15
EmpowerED - Special Education Law and Advocacy
8:30 AM
The Kensington Hotel, 3500 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
EmpowerED - Special Education Law and Advocacy
Date: Sep 15
Time: 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: The Kensington Hotel, 3500 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
Calendar: Community Events

Join us for a powerful, information-packed day led by renowned special education attorney Wayne Steedman. In today's climate of confusion and misinformation, EmpowerED will bring clarity, confidence, and direction to parents, educators, and professionals navigating special education law.

Registration includes:

  • Full-day training session

  • Two essential books: Wrightslaw: Special Education Law and All About IEPs

  • Lunch and refreshments

  • Printed program materials 

Space is limited — reserve your seat today! REGISTER HERE

About Wayne Steedman

Wayne Steedman is a nationally recognized special education attorney and a dedicated advocate for children with disabilities. He is a partner at The Steedman Law Group, where he represents students and their families in special education matters including IEP development, due process hearings, and federal court litigation.

 

Mr. Steedman is also a prominent speaker and trainer with Wrightslaw, the nation’s leading resource for special education law and advocacy. Through his work with Wrightslaw, he has trained thousands of parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys across the country to understand the rights of students with disabilities and how to advocate effectively.

ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
2:00 PM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 15
Time: 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Calendar: Community Events
Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom.To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County.For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.
September 16
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
7:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 16
Time: 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.
Hiking Club - UMAISE
5:30 PM
Hiking Club - UMAISE
Date: Sep 16
Time: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Calendar: Community Events
Contact pmr-umaisetr@umich.edu for more information

Registration
September 17
PAX Gymnastics - Our Play Ground
8:30 AM
PAX Gymnastics, 375 E North St Suite #101, Chelsea, MI 48118, USA
PAX Gymnastics - Our Play Ground
Date: Sep 17
Time: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Location: PAX Gymnastics, 375 E North St Suite #101, Chelsea, MI 48118, USA
Calendar: Community Events
A soft, welcoming space for adults to PLAY (unstructured with minimal instruction). 
  • Climbing wall
  • Obstacle course
  • Soft spring floor
  • Hula hoops
  • Yoga balls
  • Hippity Hop
  • Frisbee
  • Foot/hand-bag
  • Balloon dancing
  • Slack-line

Plus: Amazing music to dance, move and roll with.

Sliding Scale: $15-$20
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
10:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 17
Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.

Citizenship Tutoring Available!
MSU - Professionalism: Communicate, Dress and Deliver with Confidence
6:30 PM
MSU - Professionalism: Communicate, Dress and Deliver with Confidence
Date: Sep 17
Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Calendar: Community Events
Adulting 101 2025

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!


Cost: FREE


Register 

  • Set yourself up for success by mastering the key elements of professionalism in this 4-H Adulting 101 session! We'll cover the essentials for thriving in any professional environment-from effective verbal and written communication to dressing the part and following through on commitments. Learn tips on creating a positive impression, building trust and showing character in every interaction.

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.


Contact Information

For information, contact:
Kathy Jamieson - jamies13@msu.edu
Laurie Rivetto - rivettol@msu.edu
Janice Zerbe - rajzerj@msu.edu

Club SkyWild
7:00 PM
Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Club SkyWild
Date: Sep 17
Time: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
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.

Register





Pricing Information

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.


September 18
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
7:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 18
Time: 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register. 

No Class on 11/27
September 18 - September 19
The Social Scene - Work and Play
6:00 PM
Work and Play Disabiliy Community Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
The Social Scene - Work and Play
Date: Sep 18 - Sep 19
Time: 6:00 PM to 8:00 AM
Location: Work and Play Disabiliy Community Center, 444 N Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar: Community Events
Adults only with developmental disabilities community night with music, games, food & friendship every 3rd Thursday!

The Social Scene – A Monthly Community Night to Celebrate Friendship & Inclusion

Join us every third Thursday for The Social Scene, a vibrant, all-ages community event designed to foster friendship, connection, and belonging. Enjoy music, games, free food, and a welcoming environment where people of all abilities and backgrounds are valued, respected, and celebrated. Whether you're looking to meet new friends or simply enjoy a fun night out, this is the place to be!

📅 Every 3rd Thursday | ⏰ 6:00–8:00 PM

📍 Work and Play Disability Community Center – 444 Hewitt Rd, Ypsilanti

🎉 Presented in collaboration with the Work and Play Disability Community Center, REIA Education Network Team of Michigan and the EMU Women’s Resource Center

Dr. Kimberly D. Ferrell, Ph.D. is the Coordinator of the EMU Women’s Resource Center and founder of the REIA Education Network Team of Michigan. An award-winning educator and activist, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, healing-centered spaces that uplift marginalized voices and celebrate intersectional identity.

RSVP for The Social Scene

September 19
Digital Literacy Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
12:00 PM
Ypsilanti District Library - Whittaker Road, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Digital Literacy Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 19
Time: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Location: Ypsilanti District Library - Whittaker Road, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar: Community Events
Build Essential Tech Skills:Free for adults 
  • How to Use Computers, Phones, and Tablets 
  • Internet Safety and Privacy 
  • Email and Social Media Etiquette 
  • Digital Skills for Fun, Work and Everyday Life 
  • Using Zoom for appointments  

No Registration Needed!
Personal Devices Welcome
September 21
Supporting Positive Growth Series: Prevention Strategies for Positive Behavior
4:00 PM
Supporting Positive Growth Series: Prevention Strategies for Positive Behavior
Date: Sep 21
Time: 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Calendar: Community Events
Work and Play

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

Nov 16, 2025 : Brain-Based Calming Strategies



PDF flyer to share! Supporting Positive Growth

September 22
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
2:00 PM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 22
Time: 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Calendar: Community Events
Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom.To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County.For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.
September 23
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
7:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 23
Time: 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.
WISD Board of Education Regular Meeting
5:00 PM
1819 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103
WISD Board of Education Regular Meeting
Date: Sep 23
Time: 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Location: 1819 S. Wagner Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Calendar: WISD Calendar
September 24
PAX Gymnastics - Our Play Ground
8:30 AM
PAX Gymnastics, 375 E North St Suite #101, Chelsea, MI 48118, USA
PAX Gymnastics - Our Play Ground
Date: Sep 24
Time: 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Location: PAX Gymnastics, 375 E North St Suite #101, Chelsea, MI 48118, USA
Calendar: Community Events
A soft, welcoming space for adults to PLAY (unstructured with minimal instruction). 
  • Climbing wall
  • Obstacle course
  • Soft spring floor
  • Hula hoops
  • Yoga balls
  • Hippity Hop
  • Frisbee
  • Foot/hand-bag
  • Balloon dancing
  • Slack-line

Plus: Amazing music to dance, move and roll with.

Sliding Scale: $15-$20
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
10:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 24
Time: 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register.

Citizenship Tutoring Available!
Sensory Friendly Virtual Pets Program - The Henry Ford
6:00 PM
Sensory Friendly Virtual Pets Program - The Henry Ford
Date: Sep 24
Time: 6:00 PM to 7:15 PM
Calendar: Community Events

On Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 6:00-7:15 pm we will be hosting a free virtual program designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorder or sensory processing disorder and their family members or caregivers. We will have a pets-themed movement activity, story, and craft. We also encourage attendees to share their pets or a picture of a pet with us on the Zoom screen! All ages and abilities are welcome.
 
The program will be held virtually via Zoom and instructions to join will be sent out to all registered participants before the program. This program will be recorded and shared with our Sensory-Friendly community. Please note that participants can choose to have their cameras on Zoom turned on or off during the program. Space is limited and registration is required. By attending this virtual program, you also have the choice to receive complimentary tickets (up to six per family) to visit The Henry Ford. If you are interested in tickets, please make sure to specify this in the registration information and provide your name and mailing address so that we can mail the tickets to you.
 
You can register using this link: https://forms.gle/eogEyHRGKE9h6JX66
September 25
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
7:00 AM
ESL Community Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 25
Time: 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
Calendar: Community Events

Practice your English as a Second Language (ESL) skills for free over Zoom. To participate, you must live, work, volunteer, or go to school in Washtenaw County. For Intermediate - Advanced Level English Learners.  

No ID or personal information required.  Visit Washtenaw Literacy ESL to register. 

No Class on 11/27
September 26
Digital Literacy Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
12:00 PM
Ypsilanti District Library - Whittaker Road, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Digital Literacy Tutoring - Washtenaw Literacy
Date: Sep 26
Time: 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Location: Ypsilanti District Library - Whittaker Road, 5577 Whittaker Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA
Calendar: Community Events
Build Essential Tech Skills:Free for adults 
  • How to Use Computers, Phones, and Tablets 
  • Internet Safety and Privacy 
  • Email and Social Media Etiquette 
  • Digital Skills for Fun, Work and Everyday Life 
  • Using Zoom for appointments  

No Registration Needed!
Personal Devices Welcome

News

Program Map

ADA & Accessibility

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. 

ADA Compliance

Non Discrimination

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.

Non Discrimination Information

ADA and Title IX CoordinatorADA and Title IX CoordinatorMichigan Department of Civil Rights
Brian Marcel
Associate Superintendent
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1402
Cassandra Harmon-Higgins
Executive Director, HR & Legal Services
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1311
Online Complaint Form
(800) 482-3604
Contact MDCR