Special Services

As parents and educators, we know that no two children learn alike or have the same educational needs. The Special Services Department, through leadership and collaboration with schools, parents and students, provides students with disabilities an appropriate education based on learning outcomes emphasizing academic, personal/social and daily living skills.

Children who need extra help at school in order to learn may need special education services through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Some challenges that students experience are resolved with assistance from the Team Approach Process (TAP) committee at each school. At times, students are referred for further assessment to determine if special education services or adjustments to the regular education program are required. There are many steps that must be followed to decide whether a child's educational needs require the assistance of special education. Checks and balances are built into each step, and a team approach is used to ensure that children who need special education will receive such services.

If you have any questions about eligibility for special programs or would like more information, contact your school principal or call the Department of Special Services at 602-347-2632. The department also facilitates student health services and alternative education services for selected students.

Additionally, if you have a child between the ages of 2 years and five months to 5 years and have concerns regarding the need for special education services, please click here.