Parent urges Apache Junction Unified board to improve special education communication and services

Apache Junction, Ariz. — During public comment at the Apache Junction Unified District Governing Board meeting on Sept. 9, 2021, a parent asked the board and district staff to improve communication and the efficiency of special education services.

Annabelle Persian identified herself as a parent of two district students who have individualized education programs and said one child has speech needs and another is identified with OHI/ADHD. "I wanna say thank you to the board president and all the board members. Thank you to doctor Papalardo for all the time that everyone wants and everything," Persian said, but continued, "I would like to ask that when they consider anything about SPED, that they really consider beginning to end what effect it can have on the teachers, the students." She asked parents to reach out to case managers and the superintendent if they needed help and urged the board to hold continued meetings to address ongoing special education issues.

Superintendent Dr. Papalardo acknowledged the comment and said staff would continue to follow up with the parent. The parent said the problems have persisted since 2022 (as she described them) and asked for ongoing board engagement and improvements to how the SPED department communicates with families.

Why this matters

Public comment raised operational concerns about special education services that affect families and classroom teachers. The board acknowledged the request and the superintendent offered to continue follow‑up, indicating the issue will receive further staff attention.

Speakers in this item were the commenter Annabelle Persian and Superintendent Dr. Papalardo, who agreed to follow up.