Stevens Point schools awarded state grant to support students with disabilities

By Brandi Makuski

STEVENS POINT — The Stevens Point Area Public School District has received a $56,000 grant from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction to help improve outcomes for students with Individualized Education Programs.

The grant is part of the state’s “Enhancing Social and Emotional Skills in Students with IEPs” (ES3) initiative. Stevens Point is one of only four districts in Wisconsin to receive the three-year award, which will fund professional development for teachers and administrators working with neurodiverse students at the junior high level.

The training will focus on better supporting students with autism, emotional behavioral disabilities and other health impairments.

“This grant will strengthen staff support systems and the implementation process at the team and district levels,” said Jennie McMahon, the district’s director of student services. “By providing individualized interventions focused on students’ disability and social-emotional needs, and with embedded DPI coaching, we’re enhancing our current initiatives to improve outcomes for students with IEPs.”

As part of the grant, the district will partner with DPI Supporting Neurodiverse Students coordinators who will provide coaching, training, and “evidence-based strategies” to assist both educators and students.

Superintendent Cory Hirsbrunner called the grant a major step in expanding the district’s support for neurodiverse learners.

“Our student services team continues to lead with innovation and dedication,” Hirsbrunner said. “We’re proud of their ongoing efforts to support students and their specific learning needs.”