As the Canutillo Family prepares to reopen face to face and reunite with our students on September 14, we understand that one of your concerns is how your child with disabilities will begin the 2020-2021 school year in these unprecedented times. Please know that students receiving special education services will continue to have the best possible access to quality instruction and required services according to their IEP.
To ensure Canutillo ISD provides the services necessary for the provision of a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to the greatest extent possible, whether in virtual environments or face-to-face or, the district will carefully document all services, and Admission, Review and Dismissal (ARD) committees will determine the need for compensatory services for individual students as needed. We will communicate with you constantly regarding your child’s progress.
In addition to providing services outlined in student individualized education programs (IEP), schools and families will partner together to ensure a smooth, safe start of school. We know some students will adjust quickly to the transition, however, some may need additional support and will benefit from the following plans and procedures:
- Special education teachers understand and will continue to be patient and kind as students are re-acquainted with school and the new procedures.
- Teachers will diligently work with students to stress the importance of personal safety. Once we return to face to face instruction, disabled students will not be penalized for not wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
- If students have difficulty wearing masks, Plexiglas affixed to student desks will provide an added layer of protection in the classroom.
- All CISD Staff, including administration, general education teachers, special education teachers and paraprofessionals, have completed training on sanitary measures including student safety and understanding how to thoroughly clean classroom areas.
- Special education teachers in self-contained settings will use a variety of instructional methods, such as social stories, to help students learn about and practice wearing masks and social distancing. Many of you have already been in contact with your teachers through this crisis.
Please check the link for the school schedule of virtual learning for CISD students on the CISD Home Page at canutillo-isd.org. under School Reopening Information
Canutillo ISD will maintain effective communication with all families as we continue to respond to the COVID 19 pandemic. If you have additional questions, please contact your child’s school or the Canutillo ISD Special Education Department at 915-877- 7450 or you may contact the Administration at your child’s school.
We are counting the days until we have the privilege of seeing your child face to face again.