West Metro Learning Connections, Inc

Specialties

Social Skills:

West Metro Learning Connections has helped over 1000 children and teens with autism spectrum disorders lead happier, more social lives by working in partnership with schools, agencies and parents to provide an integrated program for each child.

We don’t just teach social skills — we teach social thinking and understanding so that children can apply what they learn wherever they go.

We help children and adults adapt to new social settings and have fun while learning to FIT IN & SHINE!

Individualized Programming:

West Metro Learning Connections is highly regarded for the individualized autism spectrum disorder (ASD) services we provide school districts, charter schools, virtual schools and home schoolers.

Alternative Placement:

When WMLC serves as an alternative therapeutic placement site we help students make a smooth transition to their next placement by accompanying them for a length of time determined by their IEP team.

Educational Evaluations & IEP’s:

WMLC conducts MDE-​compliant evaluations and assists with writing IEP goals, accommodations, and developing modifications and supports.

History

Established in 2001.

West Metro Learning Connections (WMLC) began with a humble dream and a passion to provide an environment where bright and gifted individuals can learn the skills they need to succeed in the social world. Originally operating out of the Great Room of my home, with my daughters, Katherine and Elizabeth working at my side, WMLC was created for children with ASD and related social needs to learn and grow in an anxiety-​free, nurturing family atmosphere. Through intimate facilitation in social skills, academics and self management, our approach has always focused on the inherent potential of our clients.

«The West Metro Way,» as we call our philosophy put into action, is equal parts friendship and professionalism. We believe that we can only begin to understand clients’ personal needs and capabilities by building genuine, caring relationships with them.

Debra Schipper, Founder & CEO

Meet the Business Owner

Debra S.

Business Owner

B.A. Secondary Education-​English, German, and Journalism; M.Ed. Educational Psychology-​Emotional Behavioral Disorders; Autism Spectrum Disorder Specialist

Licensed: General Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Emotional Behavioral Disorders

Debra has been a professional educator in general and special education for over twenty-​five years. She teaches, coaches, and supports children through young adults, and their families, with autism spectrum and related needs. With experience and expertise in elementary through high schools, Debra also teaches and prepares others to work effectively with these special young people.

Debra has completed Michelle Garcia Winner’s Social Thinking Clinical Training Program Level 1 Assessment Mentorship Training Program in San Jose and has also completed ADOS Reliability Training at the University of Michigan with Catherine Lord’s team.