Special Services

The Dakota Valley School District provides special education services to eligible students from birth to 21. Students are identified through a referral and evaluation process. If students are determined eligible, the student's multidisciplinary team develops an Individual Education Program (IEP) to address areas of need. Through the IEP, students may receive support from a team of special education staff including special education teachers, paraeducators, speech/language therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists and school psychologists.

Special Programs

R.I.S.E. Program

The Dakota Valley Special Services Department is launching a new program for students in Grades 6-12, and in some cases to age 21, who are on IEPs and needing additional supports.

R.I.S.E., Reaching Independence through Support and Education, will focus on stimulating academics at all levels, social skills and life skills training, opportunities for inclusion both in the general education environment and through reverse inclusion with general education students “buddying” in the RISE classroom. 

Information & ResourcesDakota Valley 2024-25 EL Lau Plan

Parental Rights & Procedural Safeguards

SD Early Learning Guidelines - Developmental Milestones, Birth-5

SD Parent Connection - Resources for Families

SD StepAhead - Supporting Early Learners