We request approval of an increase of $120,000 to Agenda Item E 5.11, approved by the School Board on May 16, 2006, for a new total of $1,020,000. The original estimate of $900,000 will be exceeded due to the increase in duration of services provided to students with disabilities; an increase in the number of students with disabilities provided occupational/physical therapy services; the extended length of Extended School Year (ESY) program; and the collaborative support service model which has been implemented with the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Early Exceptional Learning Program (EELP) classes.

Occupational and Physical Therapy services to students with disabilities are required by federal laws including Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1974, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Kimberlee Vickers, Invo HealthCare Associates, Progressus Therapy, Independent Living, Inc., Therapy Dynamics, and Cross Country Staffing have provided services to the district since May 16, 2006, through the approved RFP #4839-KJ.

We continue to collaborate with the Human Resources Department to explore options for possible restructuring of the Occupational and Physical Therapy positions. The expected outcome of our efforts will assist in the retention and recruitment of a greater number of direct-hire personnel, thus minimizing the need for contracted personnel.

All District Goals and Critical Success Factors

The additional funding of $120,000 to provide Occupational and Physical Therapy services is included in the IDEA budget.