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Special Services
Special Education
The mission of the Special Education Department at Hot Springs School District is to provide individualized, high-quality educational opportunities that empower students with disabilities to reach their fullest potential. Through collaborative partnerships with families, educators, and the community, the department is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that supports academic achievement, social development, and lifelong learning. By focusing on each student's unique strengths and needs, the department ensures equitable access to resources and services, preparing all learners for success in school and beyond.
Vashanti Williams, Director of Special Education (williamsv@hssd.net)
Sasha Edds, Administrative Assistant to the Director of Special Education (eddss@hssd.net)
Ruby Carl, District Designee (carlr@hssd.net)
Theresa Otwell, District Behavioral Specialist (otwellt@hssd.net)
Kim Hughes, Special Education Records Clerk (hughesk@hssd.net)
Building Designees:
Ruby Carl, Langston Elementary Leadership Academy and Park Magnet, an IB World School (carlr@hssd.net)
Kerri Whitson, Main Street Visual & Performing Arts Magnet School (whitsonk@hssd.net)
Bethany Compton, Oaklawn STEM Magnet School (comptonb@hssd.net)
Madison Rawls, Hot Springs Junior Academy (rawlsm@hssd.net)
Jennifer Coleman, Hot Springs World Class High School and Junior Academy (colemanj@hssd.net)
Psychological Examiner/Educational Examiner
Kendra Roberts, Hot Springs World Class High School and Hot Springs Junior Academy (robertsk@hssd.net)
Melissa Tiernan, Main Street and Park Magnet (tiermanm@hssd.net)
Elizabeth Gibson, Langston Elementary and Oaklawn STEM (gibsone@hssd.net)
Special Education Records
Special Education records are maintained for six years after students graduate, are dismissed from services, or withdraw from the HSSD. A notice is then posted in the Sentinel Record Newspaper, and these records are destroyed confidentially. Records are available to the student or parent (if the student is under 18 years old) by request. Contact Kim Hughes, hughesk@hssd.net
Hot Springs School District Unified Basketball team, the 2023 State Champions
Resources
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Arkansas Rehabilitation Services
CADRE: Special Education Due Process Complaints/Hearing Requests
10 Basic Steps in Special Education
Questions and Answers about IDEA: Parent Participation
Questions Often Asked by Parents about Special Education
Arkansas Department of Education - Special Education Unit
Section 504
Students with disabilities, whether permanent or temporary, are eligible to receive accommodations that allow them to access the learning environment successfully. Any disability that substantially limits a major life activity should be reported to school personnel so that a 504 plan can be considered.
If you feel that your student needs a 504 plan, contact Becky Rosburg, Assistant Superintendent, at rosburgb@hssd.net or your school’s assistant principal.