At the recent Blueprint Special Education Workgroup meeting held on November 29, 2023, a powerful call for enhanced training for special education teachers took center stage. Melissa Stein, a representative from the Montgomery County Council of PTAs and a parent of three autistic children, emphasized the urgent need for specialized training in autism and emotional disabilities among educators.

Stein's testimony highlighted a critical gap in the current educational framework, stating that many special education teachers lack the necessary skills to effectively support students with autism. "Until teachers in local schools are trained to help our children on the spectrum, students can only receive an appropriate education in settings outside of their locally assigned school," she warned. This situation leads to inequitable access to services, particularly for families who may not have the resources to navigate the complex educational landscape.

Stein also addressed the guiding question of the meeting regarding the integration of general and special education. She proposed separating the focus on reducing referrals and identifications from the need for crisis prevention training for educators. "Widespread classroom teacher and paraeducator crisis prevention and de-escalation training is a priority for the MCC PTA," she asserted, advocating for proactive measures to support students before crises escalate.

The meeting also featured updates from the Maryland State Department of Education, including discussions on the state of special education in Maryland and the importance of aligning educational goals with student needs. Assistant Superintendent Dr. Hickman and other members of the workgroup acknowledged the feedback received and expressed commitment to addressing the identified challenges.

As the workgroup continues its discussions, the emphasis on specialized training and proactive support for students with disabilities remains a pivotal focus. The outcomes of these conversations could significantly influence the future of special education in Maryland, aiming for a more equitable and effective system for all students.