News Release

Stevens Point Area Public School District

1900 Polk Street

Stevens Point, WI 54481

 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 

CONTACT:            Sarah O’Donnell, director of communications
                              715/343-6629 | sodonnel@pointschools.net 

 

July 14, 2025

SPAPSD Receives Grant to Improve IEP Student Success

STEVENS POINT, WI — The Stevens Point Area Public School District is one of four recipients of the Enhancing Social and Emotional Skills in Students with IEPs (ES3) Three Year Grant. The $56,000 Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) grant supports the district’s commitment to improving outcomes for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The grant dollars will provide professional development for teachers and administrators supporting students with neurodiversity within the junior high school special education program, with a focus on 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 Director of Student Services Jennie McMahon. “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.”

School districts receiving this grant collaborate with DPI Supporting Neurodiverse Students (SNS) Coordinators who assist the district and school teams through coaching and training. They also provide resources to implement evidence-based improvement strategies to support students’ and educators’ growth.

“We are excited about the impact this funding will have in helping us better support our neurodiverse learners and enhance the educational experience for all of our students,” said Superintendent Cory Hirsbrunner. “Our student services team continues to lead with innovation and dedication, and we’re proud of their ongoing efforts to support students and their specific learning needs.” 

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CUTLINE: The Stevens Point Area Public School District is one of four recipients of the $56,000 Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) ES3 grant supporting the district’s commitment to improving outcomes for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).