During a recent government meeting, Derica Turner, the Executive Director of Special Education, provided a comprehensive update on the department's service provision and staffing challenges. The meeting highlighted the mission to ensure a free and appropriate public education for students requiring specially designed instruction, as outlined in their Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

Turner reported on the department's achievements, including the evaluation of 24 early childhood students and the successful integration of new staff members, such as diagnosticians and speech-language pathologists. She emphasized the importance of partnerships, particularly the collaboration with community organizations to support the Hillside Hub, which aids in providing resources for students.

Despite these successes, the department faces significant staffing shortages, with 19 vacancies out of a target of 89 staff members. High-need areas include self-contained classrooms, where the lack of qualified teachers and paraprofessionals is particularly acute. Turner noted that the department is currently utilizing contracted service providers, such as Delta T, to fill these gaps, although these staff members are not officially part of the district.

Stakeholder feedback from surveys indicated a strong demand for additional staff and resources, particularly in behavior support and training. Parents expressed a desire for more communication and involvement in the decision-making processes affecting their children’s education.

Turner outlined the department's priorities, which include ensuring student safety, addressing staffing vacancies, and maintaining compliance with educational standards. She also discussed ongoing efforts to monitor and support students' academic progress, despite the challenges posed by staffing shortages. The department is implementing compensatory services for students missing required support due to these vacancies, ensuring that educational needs are met.

Trustees engaged in a dialogue regarding the implications of these staffing issues on student outcomes, particularly concerning IEP compliance and instructional quality. Turner reassured them that the department is actively working to balance instructional support with the urgent needs of self-contained settings.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing communication and collaboration among staff, parents, and the board to enhance the educational experience for all students in the district.