Dallas ISD’s Special Services department offers families of students who receive these services opportunities and tools to help navigate resources available to them through the district. This could include tools such as apps, parent training, extracurricular and enrichment activities, and more.
One of the resources available to parents and guardians is the Let’s Talk app. Questions about Special Services, Dyslexia, Section 504 services, transportation, etc., can be asked on this app, which can be downloaded to your phone, computer, tablet or smartphone at no cost. Anyone can submit a question, comment, concern, suggestion, or compliment any time, seven days a week. The intent of the Let’s Talk app is to build positive community relationships and to encourage opportunities for parent participation in their child’s education.
Parents can also engage with the district by participating in the parent trainings offered through Special Services. The department is hosting a Super Parent Academy from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, at the Linus D. Wright Dallas ISD Administration Building, 9400 North Central Expressway, in room 1350. It is an opportunity for parents/guardians to learn about topics such as the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) process and how to read your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP), among other important information.
Presenters at the Super Parent Academy include: Michelle Brown, executive director of Special Services, Section 504, and Dyslexia; Anabel Meyer, executive director of Special Services Evaluation and Behavior; and Ray Wyatts, director of Special Services Campus Support. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions. Spanish language interpretation will be offered. The information session is free, but you must register by filling out this form or by calling Special Services at 972-581-4100. “The intent of the Super Parent Academy is to inform and support parents who have children that receive Special Services,” said Brown.
In addition to the parent/guardian meetings with staff, the Special Services department offers opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities such as the Special Olympics, Space Camp, the Buddy Walk and more.
Currently, registration for the 2022 Dallas Buddy Walk is open. Sponsored by the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas, the walk is for persons with Down Syndrome and for those who want to show support. The Buddy Walk will take place at 11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, at the Toyota FC Dallas Stadium (East Gate), 9200 World Cup Way, in Frisco.
For individuals with Down Syndrome, there is no cost to participate. For others ages 13 and older, the cost is $21, and for children ages 0-12 years, it is $3. To register or to get more information, parents and guardians can click here.
For further information about any Special Services resources, Dallas ISD parents/guardians can contact Special Services at 972-581-4100 or via email at NotifySPED@dallasisd.org.
