The Special Projects Unit is comprised of multiple areas that are quite distinct from each other:
Accessible Educational Materials
This unit assists Local Education Agencies to obtain textbooks and other core instructional materials for students on IEPs who require alternative formats to access printed text.
Judy Olaiz, Assistive Technology Administrative Assistant
Assistive Technology (AT)
The Assistive Technology (AT) team provides ongoing statewide assistive technology training, technical assistance, and resources to guarantee that all students and school personnel have equal access to appropriate AT strategies and services.
Ann Gortarez, Bruce Kennedy and Mary Keeney, Assistive Technology Specialists
Data Management
The Data Management team is responsible for the collection, review, validation, verification, and Analysis of Special Education Data in Arizona.
Peggy Staples and Chris Brown, Data Management Specialists
Maria Durazo, Administrative Assistant
Medicaid School-Based Claiming
Medicaid School-Based Claiming (MSBC) is a joint federal and state program that offers reimbursement for both the provision of covered medically necessary school-based services and for the cost of administrative activities.
Secondary Transition
The Secondary Transition team works with students, families, school personnel, and other state agencies to address transition planning, and includes Post School Outcomes (PSO).
Andi Asel, Ana Núñez, and Angela Odom, Transition Specialists
Jeannette Zemeida, Administrative Assistant
Jay Johnson, PSO Specialist
Eric Ashenfelter, PSO Support
Secure Care
The Secure Care team works toward successful reintegration of students from secure care facilities to community and life.
Aanya Rispoli and Janis Shoop, Secure Care Specialists
Traumatic Brain Injury
Exceptional Student Services contracts with a training consultant to provide training services to Arizona educators, parents, and interested community members in the basics of working with students with traumatic brain injuries in school and community settings. For information on TBI, email Jeannette Zemeida.
Contact Us
Arizona Department of Education, Exceptional Student Services/Special Projects
Alissa Trollinger, Director of Special Projects
Physical Location: 3300 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85012
Mailing Address: 1535 W. Jefferson St., Bin #24, Phoenix, AZ 85007
Telephone: (602) 542-3855
For questions please call the Special Projects Coordinator at the number listed above or e-mail [email protected]
Back to Exceptional Student Services