The Howard County Board of Education convened on February 10, 2025, for a public hearing focused on the Superintendent's proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2026. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the pressing needs of the special education program, highlighting ongoing challenges and calls for increased funding.

Speakers at the meeting, including parents and educators, expressed deep concerns about the current state of special education services within Howard County Public Schools (HCPSS). One parent emphasized that despite recent efforts to optimize staffing and resources, the system remains underfunded and unable to meet the complex needs of students with disabilities. The speaker pointed out that the district's approach of "doing more with less" has not yielded positive results, as evidenced by the rising costs associated with non-public placements due to insufficient in-district options.

Another parent, advocating for a fully funded special education budget, shared personal experiences of the overwhelming challenges faced by families navigating the system. They highlighted the burnout among case managers and the detrimental impact on students who are not receiving the services they are legally entitled to. The call for dedicated special education teachers and increased support staff was echoed, with a plea for the board to prioritize these essential positions in the budget proposal.

A speech-language pathologist from Cedar Lane School further illustrated the staffing shortages, revealing that a small number of professionals are responsible for a large caseload of students requiring speech services. The speaker described the daily struggles of balancing administrative duties with direct student support, emphasizing that the current staffing levels are inadequate to meet the needs of students effectively.

The testimonies underscored a consensus among parents and educators that the special education system is in crisis and requires immediate and bold action. They urged the board to advocate for a budget that not only meets basic needs but also ensures fairness and equity for students with disabilities.

As the board considers the proposed budget, the discussions from this public hearing highlight the urgent need for increased investment in special education services. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of educational support for students with disabilities in Howard County. The community awaits the board's response and the next steps in addressing these critical issues.