While both staff and parents approach program development for special education students with their best interests in mind, sometimes differences of opinion on the best approach may occur. Parents who have questions or concerns about their student should take their concerns first to the special education teacher, general education teacher and/or school therapist who works with their student. If the questions or concerns are not answered at that level, parents have a series of people to whom they can go for help. Follow the “Ladders of Support” when you have questions or concerns regarding your student.

Ladders of Support:

1. Start with the special education and/or general education teacher and/or school therapist



2. If concerns are not met, go to the school principal



3. If concerns are not met, go to the Special Education School Support Coordinator*



4. If concerns are not met, go to the Director of Special Education (Paul Vine)



5. If concerns are not met, go to the Chief Schools Officer (Traci Pierce)



6. If concerns are not met, go to the Superintendent (Dr. Chip Kimball)



7. If concerns are not met, go to the OSPI Special Education Ombudsman** (Kristin Hennesey)

*Please refer to the Special Education Administrative Responsibility Chart 2008-2009

**Kristin Hennesey is the Special Education Ombudsman from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). She can help in dealing with your child’s special needs, to help them be successful in school (504 or IEP). She can be reached at 360-725-6075.