A passionate plea for change in Oregon's special education system took center stage during the Senate Committee on Education meeting on May 28, 2025. Educators voiced urgent concerns about the overwhelming challenges they face, particularly in supporting students with special needs amid a backdrop of inadequate resources and mental health support.

One educator highlighted the dire situation, stating, "We are losing people... Something big needs to be done to support every student in Oregon." This sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, as teachers described the emotional toll of balancing the needs of their students with their own well-being. The educator emphasized that many students come from unstable home environments, which significantly impacts their behavior and learning capabilities. "The majority of our biggest behaviors are from students... who have a broken home," they explained, underscoring the need for comprehensive mental health resources.

Senator Joseph Blunt acknowledged the educator's heartfelt testimony, recognizing the internal conflict between serving students and caring for staff. He questioned the committee on how to address the root causes of behavioral issues, rather than merely reacting to them. The educator responded, stressing the importance of proactive measures and the critical lack of mental health support in schools and communities.

The discussion also revealed the burdensome paperwork that special education teachers face, with one educator estimating they spend two to three hours daily on administrative tasks. This time could otherwise be spent directly supporting students, further illustrating the systemic issues within the educational framework.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency for legislative action was palpable. Educators called for increased funding and resources to address the basic needs of students, emphasizing that without these supports, effective learning is nearly impossible. The committee's response to these pressing concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of special education in Oregon.