Kyrene Resource Fair empowers parents and caretakers of kids with disabilities

The multipurpose room at Kyrene Centennial Middle School buzzed with conversation on April 15, during the Kyrene School District Resource Fair – the first since 2020.

The event, hosted by Kyrene’s Exceptional Student Services team, brought more than two dozen local service providers together in one place to connect with families raising children with disabilities.

“Raising a child with disabilities, especially as a first-time parent, can seem daunting,” Kyrene ESS Director Dr. Tzipi Turner said. “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.”

Families had the opportunity to speak with vendors about what services they provide and discuss their children’s unique needs. Kyrene developed the resource fair to provide families with 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,” Amy Dill, Kyrene ESS early learning facilitator, said. “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. Families also walked away with free books provided by First Things First and raffle prizes ranging from a sensory ball set to an art-to-go table easel and even an ice-cream-themed sensory bin.

Organizations in attendance 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 to high school.

The resource fair is just one example of how Kyrene’s ESS department is committed to improving outcomes for students and helping 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