CCEA leaders advocate for Senate Bill 368 to support special education in Nevada

The Nevada Senate Committee on Education convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 368, which aims to enhance support for special education students in the state. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and representatives from the Clark County Education Association (CCEA), who expressed strong support for the bill.

Marie Neises, president of CCEA, emphasized the urgent need to protect vulnerable students amid ongoing challenges in public education. She highlighted the critical shortage of qualified special education teachers and the necessity for adequate resources in classrooms. Neises urged committee members to vote in favor of SB368 to ensure that special education services remain reliable and effective.

Dr. Brenda Pearson, also representing CCEA, outlined three key components of the bill. First, it proposes a literacy screener for early identification of students with learning challenges, allowing for proactive intervention rather than a reactive approach. Second, the bill addresses behavioral issues among special education students, advocating for structured support plans. Lastly, it sets limits on class sizes in special education to ensure individualized attention for students.

Additional testimonies reinforced the bill's importance, with educators like Galadino Griego stressing the need for licensed teachers in special education classrooms. He pointed out that current policies allow unlicensed teachers to lead these classrooms, which can disrupt essential services and compromise student safety.

The committee also heard neutral testimony expressing concerns about potential federal cuts to education funding, which could impact the implementation of SB368. Alexander Marks from the Nevada State Education Association warned that dismantling the U.S. Department of Education could jeopardize vital resources for students with special needs.

The meeting concluded without opposition testimony, and the committee members were encouraged to consider the bill's implications for Nevada's education system. The next steps for SB368 will be determined in future sessions, as the committee continues to address educational challenges in the state.