Squiddles Survival Swim School Is Now an Approved PDSES Provider
At Squiddles Survival Swim School, our core belief is that every child deserves the chance to be safe in the water. That mission has never wavered. That’s why it’s extremely gratifying to announce that Squiddles is officially an approved Provider through Texas's Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) program. Beyond celebrating, this post is about making sure every eligible family knows exactly how to use it.
If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and you're looking for ways to fund life-saving swim instruction, this is the news you've been waiting for.
What Is PDSES and Why Does It Matter?
The Parent-Directed Special Education Services (PDSES) program is a one-time $1,500 state grant available to parents and guardians of students enrolled in Texas public schools who receive special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The grant is designed to give families more control over the resources and services their children receive, and now, PDSES Texas swim lessons at Squiddles are one of those approved options.
This is thrilling news. We’re honored that a program built to empower families of children with special needs is now opening the door to one of the most essential life skills a child can have: the ability to survive in water.
For many of the families we serve, this changes everything.
Who Is Eligible for the PDSES Grant?
Before you apply, it's important to make sure your child qualifies. To be eligible, your student must:
Be currently enrolled in a Texas public school (grades Pre-K through 12th grade)
Receive special education services through an active IEP
Have never previously received a PDSES grant (this is a one-time-only opportunity)
It's also worth knowing that the PDSES program operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding is limited each year, and once it's gone, it's gone. If your child is eligible, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible when the application window opens. You can view dates here.
Your child must remain eligible throughout the entire application and approval process. If they are dismissed from special education services, graduate, or enroll in a private school before the process is complete, they would no longer qualify.
How to Use Your PDSES Grant for Swim Lessons at Squiddles
Once your PDSES account is approved, you'll have access to an online marketplace where you can shop for approved educational materials and services, and that includes swim instruction through Squiddles. Here's how to get started:
Apply for your PDSES grant through the official Texas program portal. Have your child's IEP and school enrollment information ready.
After you have submitted your application(s), visit the PDSES Parent Portal and Application FAQs. You can also click the button below to log into your My SPEDTex Account and PDSES Parent Portal.
Search for Squiddles Survival Swim School as an approved provider and select your lessons.
Reach out to us directly at swimschool@squiddles.net so we can coordinate scheduling and make sure your child is placed in the right swim program for their needs.
For more step by step instruction, please visit the TEA Texas Education Agency website directly.
Why Swim Lessons Matter for Children with Special Needs
Children with autism, sensory processing differences, and other developmental conditions are statistically at higher risk for accidental drowning. Water safety is not a luxury, it is a necessity.
Learn more about the importance of survival swim lessons here.
At Squiddles, we teach survival swimming: the real, foundational skill of being able to flip, float, and breathe independently in the water.
We don't believe in shortcuts, and we don't believe in flotation devices as a substitute for actual skill. Every child we work with stays with us until they learn. That is a promise we make to every family that walks through our door, and it's one we take personally, because for us, this work is deeply personal.
Squiddles was built in memory of two children who never got the chance to learn these skills. Every lesson we teach is our way of making sure no parent ever has to feel that kind of loss. And with PDSES Texas swim lessons now available through our school, we have the ability to reach children who need us most.
You Found Us, Now Let's Get Started
If your child qualifies for the PDSES grant, we want to hear from you. Whether you have questions about the application process, want to know more about our curriculum, or you're ready to book, our door is always open.
Contact us today, let's give your child something that will stay with them for life.
