Kyrene event focuses on aid to kids with limitations
Raising a child with physical or other difficulties can pose seemingly overwhelming challenges, and specialists in the Kyrene School District have amassed some impressive skills— and partners—to help.
A recent resource fair buzzed with conversation as the district’s Exceptional Student Services team brought together more than two dozen local service providers to connect with families with affected children.
“Raising a child with disabilities, especially as a first-time parent, can seem daunting,” said Kyrene ESS Director Dr. Tzipi Turner. “It can be overwhelming and difficult for families to run around town trying to figure out which service providers offer what services, and which of those services would benefit their child.”
At a recent informational event, families got a chance to speak with providers about what services they offer and discuss their children’s needs. Kyrene developed the event to acquaint families with the availability of one-stop access to organizations that support children with disabilities.
“As a parent myself, I know how hard it is for families to find the resources they need,” said Amy Dill, Kyrene ESS early learning facilitator. “To have each organization here in person is invaluable to families.” While adults were busy making connections with the organizations, students had a chance to express their creativity at an arts and crafts station set up alongside the event.
Families also walked away with free books provided by First Things First, an organization enabling early childhood programs through grants to community organizations for children from birth to age 5 (before kindergarten) and their families. They also received raffle prizes ranging from sensory-ball sets to art-to-go table easels—even an icecream-themed sensory bin. Organizations participating included Absolute HCBS, Down Syndrome Network, M.I.K.I.D., Raising Special Kids and Southwest Human Development, among others.
Tempe Union High School District was also there to provide families with information about the transition from middle school to high school. The fair, said a spokesperson, offered just one example of how Kyrene’s ESS department works to improve outcomes for students and help families navigate the journey of raising a child with disabilities.
Families are invited to learn more about the support Kyrene provides by visiting www.kyrene.org/ess.
