The Board of Education (BOE) Regular Meeting held on December 10, 2024, addressed critical issues surrounding special education and the ongoing challenges faced by educators and students. The meeting began with a call for professionalism and accountability among board members, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue rather than blame-shifting.

The first speaker, Erica Perez from New Windsor, raised urgent concerns regarding the repeated resignations of special education staff. She highlighted the detrimental impact these losses have on exceptional learners, stating that the current support systems are inadequate. Perez pointed out that despite significant financial investments in other areas, the needs of at-risk students are not being met. She stressed that many of these children rely heavily on educators for advocacy and support, especially when parental involvement is lacking.

Perez urged the board to develop a concrete plan of action to address the shortage of special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and necessary resources. She noted that the demand for Individualized Education Program (IEP) services has surged post-COVID, as many students have fallen behind during remote learning. The ongoing loss of special education staff, she argued, exacerbates the challenges these students face, leading to increased suspensions and a lack of essential services.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for the board to prioritize special education and ensure that adequate support is provided to both students and educators. As the discussion progressed, it became clear that addressing these issues is critical for the future success of the district's most vulnerable learners. The board is expected to consider these concerns in future meetings, with a focus on developing strategies to retain special education staff and enhance support for students in need.