6908 E. Thomas Rd.
United Way # 0077
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
Phone: 480-443-3100
Fax: 480-443-3272
To The Parents of Desert Canyon Elementary School:
Let me introduce myself…My name is Ruth Plotkin.
I am the School Prevention Specialist at Desert Canyon Elementary School.
What does a Prevention Specialist do?
A prevention specialist provides prevention focused groups and individual services for students referred for assistance in areas such as: social skills development, bullying support, divorce adjustment, grief support, conflict resolution, anger management, new student support, and decision-making skills. My goal is to provide each referred child with a “box of coping tools” to draw upon when faced with challenges.
How does one refer a student to me?
1. A teacher can refer a student and have the parent(s) fill out the permission form packet.
2. A parent can also make a referral.
(**If parents have joint custody, both parents MUST sign the permission slip. If you have any concerns regarding divorce issues or custody questions please notify your Prevention Specialist or School Administrator)
What forms do you need to complete to begin services?
The green Student Permission Form needs to be signed, dated, and all the boxes need to be checked before I can begin support services.
Once the Permission Form is completed and signed you can send it back to your child’s teacher or put it in my school mailbox. If you would like you can place the forms in a sealed envelope and address it to my attention: Ruth Plotkin/SPI. All information is kept in a locked file designated for SPI and will not be included in the student’s permanent school file.
When will I visit with the student?
I will arrange a time with the teacher that is most beneficial for your child to meet with me. I will either pick him/her up from class or will do lunch-bunch with him/her during lunchtime.
Communication with Parents:
If you have questions about the skills learned in your child’s sessions please do not hesitate to contact me. As I am only here 5 hours per week, I cannot update you each time I meet with your child. If an important concern/issue comes up during our sessions I will contact you immediately, otherwise please contact me if you have questions or concerns.
If you have any questions/concerns you can contact me at (480) 443-3100 ext. 305 or the best way to reach me is through email at Rkplotkin@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Ruth Plotkin
Scottsdale Prevention Specialist
