The Blueprint Special Education Workshop convened on December 18, 2024, from 4 to 6 p.m. EST, hosted by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration between general education and special education, with an emphasis on improving instructional practices and communication strategies.

The session began with a participant from Group 1 sharing insights on the need for greater fidelity in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The discussion highlighted the importance of targeted Tier 1 instruction to prevent students from being placed in more restrictive educational environments. Participants stressed the necessity for a cultural shift, advocating for closer collaboration between general and special education professionals earlier in the educational process.

A significant point raised was the need for effective implementation of existing MSDE policies rather than introducing new ones. The group discussed the potential for MSDE to mandate that no child should be placed on an alternate assessment path without first having access to effective communication methods, aligning with requirements from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The conversation also touched on the importance of revising Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) to adopt a strength-based approach instead of a deficit-based one. Ideas such as student-led IEP meetings and increased collaborative time among educators were proposed to foster a more inclusive environment.

Participants expressed concern about the challenges families face, particularly those whose first language is not English, when navigating the implications of alternate assessments. The need for comprehensive training for teachers was emphasized, with a suggestion that past MSDE initiatives that brought together general education, special education, and families for joint training sessions were notably effective.

The meeting concluded with a call to prioritize funding for collaborative efforts, especially in light of recent gubernatorial announcements, underscoring the critical role of collaboration in supporting students with special needs. The group aims to continue these discussions in future meetings, focusing on actionable steps to enhance educational outcomes for all students.