Special Education Services
Desert Marigold School is committed to meeting the needs of all learners. Our special education program provides individualized support within the context of our Waldorf curriculum, helping every child reach their full potential.
Our Approach
Waldorf and Special Education
The Waldorf approach, with its emphasis on meeting children where they are developmentally, aligns naturally with special education principles. Our arts-integrated, multi-sensory curriculum provides multiple pathways to learning.
We believe that every child has unique gifts and that diverse learners enrich our whole community. Our special education team works collaboratively with class teachers to ensure all students are fully included in the life of the school.
Inclusive Environment
Students receiving special education services are fully included in their class communities. Support is provided through a combination of in-classroom assistance, small group instruction, and specialized services as needed.
Our goal is to help each student develop the skills and confidence they need to participate meaningfully in school and beyond.
Services We Offer
Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Comprehensive plans developed collaboratively with families, teachers, and specialists to address each student's unique learning needs and goals.
Resource Support
Additional academic support in small groups or one-on-one settings to help students access the curriculum and develop essential skills.
Speech-Language Therapy
Services for students with communication challenges, including articulation, language processing, and social communication.
Occupational Therapy
Support for fine motor skills, sensory processing, and the practical skills needed for classroom success.
Counseling Services
Social-emotional support to help students navigate challenges, develop coping strategies, and build healthy relationships.
Classroom Accommodations
Modifications to instruction, environment, and assessment to help all students access learning.
The Evaluation Process
If you have concerns about your child's learning or development, we encourage you to reach out. Here's what the special education evaluation process looks like:
Referral
Parents, teachers, or staff may refer a student for evaluation when there are concerns about learning or development.
Evaluation
A comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals assesses the student's strengths and areas of need.
Eligibility Determination
The IEP team, including parents, reviews evaluation results to determine if the student qualifies for special education services.
IEP Development
If eligible, the team develops an individualized plan with specific goals, services, and accommodations.
Implementation & Review
Services are provided as outlined in the IEP, with regular progress monitoring and annual reviews.
Your Rights as a Parent
Parents are essential partners in special education. Federal law (IDEA) and Arizona law guarantee specific rights to parents of children with disabilities.
- Right to participate in all meetings regarding your child's education
- Right to receive prior written notice of proposed changes
- Right to consent before evaluations and services begin
- Right to access your child's educational records
- Right to request an independent educational evaluation
- Right to dispute resolution through mediation or due process
Child Find
Desert Marigold School participates in Child Find, a federal requirement to identify and evaluate children who may have disabilities. If you suspect your child may have a disability affecting their learning, you have the right to request an evaluation at no cost.
This applies to all children residing in Arizona, including those in private schools or homeschool settings.
Section 504 Plans
Some students may not qualify for special education under IDEA but still need accommodations to access their education. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act provides protections for students with disabilities that substantially limit major life activities.
If your child has a condition that affects their learning but doesn't qualify for an IEP, a 504 plan may provide the accommodations they need.
Common 504 Accommodations
- Extended time on tests and assignments
- Preferential seating
- Modified assignments or homework
- Movement breaks
- Health-related accommodations
Questions About Special Education?
Our special education coordinator is available to answer questions, discuss concerns about your child, or explain the evaluation process. We're here to help.