Student Services
Dr. Meagan Dwyer
Xanic Lopez
Dr. Meagan Dwyer is an accomplished educational leader and the current Executive Director for Student Services at Gavin School District 37. She earned a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Capella University, a Master’s in School Leadership from Northeastern Illinois Chicago, an endorsement as a Director of Special Education from Aurora University, and a Bachelor’s in Special Education from Carthage College.
Since 2019, Dr. Dwyer served as Principal and District EL Director at Gages Lake School (SEDOL), where she led innovative instructional programs, strengthened school-community partnerships, and oversaw essential operations of the school. Previously, as K-12 Director of Special Education at Wauconda CUSD 118, she provided PBIS coaching and supported IEP development, ensuring services aligned with students' unique needs.
An adjunct faculty member at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Carbondale, Dr. Dwyer shares expertise with aspiring principals, drawing from years of leadership in program development and behavior management. A national speaker on PBIS, trauma, and de-escalation, she is dedicated to fostering inclusive, effective learning environments for students and educators alike.
About Special Services
At Gavin School District 37, we believe every child deserves a learning environment that celebrates their unique strengths and meets their individual needs. We are dedicated to providing a full continuum of support from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8, that empowers students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Our Approach to Special Education
For students eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), District 37 follows all procedures for identification, evaluation, and placement as outlined by the Illinois State Board of Education. Our goal is to ensure that students with disabilities are identified and provided with the specific educational services they need to succeed.
- The IEP Team: We believe the best decisions are made together. A student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is developed by a team that includes parents, District 37 staff, and, when appropriate, the student.
- Flexible Service Delivery: We offer a wide range of supports, modifications, and accommodations. Because no two students are alike, our service delivery is flexible and based on the intensity of a student’s needs as determined by their team.
- Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): We are committed to educating students in the least restrictive environment possible, ensuring they remain connected to their school community while receiving the support they require.
- Collaborative Partnerships: To provide the highest quality of care, Gavin 37 maintains memberships in cooperative associations and, when necessary, may support students in specialized nonpublic programs or educational facilities.
Section 504 Support
We recognize that not every student who needs support will qualify for an IEP. Students with disabilities who do not qualify for an individualized education program, as required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and implementing provisions of this Illinois law, may qualify for services under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 if the student (i) has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, (ii) has a record of a physical or mental impairment, or (iii) is regarded as having a physical or mental impairment.
We welcome your questions and look forward to partnering with you. To discuss special education services, evaluations, or your child's specific needs, please contact:
Mary Orozco: morozco@gavin37.org
Steve Copeland: scopeland@gavin37.org