Cross Categorical

Students are placed in a Cross Categorical classroom when modifications and accommodations in the general education classroom are not enough to ensure academic success.  Typically students receive grade-level instruction in smaller class sizes  with support from a specially trained teacher to reach their academic goals.  

At Desert Ridge, we have cross categorical classrooms for Math, English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies and Study Skills.  

Each year every child who participates in Special Education will have an annual IEP meeting with staff, parents, and student. We use the IEP as a tool to help us document needs and appropriate placement.  We ask for parent and student input on goals, needs, and strengths. Teachers report on current progress in class.  Placement for students is often fluid, dependent upon educational need.  Meetings are scheduled in advance with notifications sent home with the student. 

Reevaluations are held every 3 years for students with a disability.  Reevaluations can be performance-based (without additional formal testing) or with formal testing.  The decision should be based upon the need for more information regarding the student and his/her eligibility. Your child will participate in several assessments throughout the year which will help document his/her academic progress.