Parents urge Bixby School Board for improved inclusion in special education

During the recent Board of Education meeting on March 13, 2025, parents of students with disabilities voiced urgent concerns regarding the district's approach to special education. Katie Huff, a parent advocating for her son Jonah, who has Down syndrome, highlighted the need for leadership that prioritizes inclusion and the rights of students with disabilities. She expressed gratitude for the support of Bixby North Intermediate's principal, Libby Vandola, but emphasized that district-level resistance remains a significant barrier to Jonah's placement in a general education classroom.

Huff urged the board to seize the opportunity presented by the resignation of the special education director to appoint a new leader who embodies empathy, knowledge of special education law, and a commitment to inclusive practices. She stressed that the new director should advocate for placing students with disabilities in general education settings as a priority, not an afterthought.

Another parent, Laurie Lee, echoed these sentiments, sharing her daughter Molly's experience in a self-contained classroom. Lee pointed out that such placements hinder students' social development and independence, arguing that meaningful inclusion leads to better academic and social outcomes. She called for a cultural shift within the district, advocating for a problem-solving mindset that seeks to support all students rather than segregate them.

Both parents emphasized the need for high-quality training for teachers to equip them with the tools necessary to support students with disabilities effectively. Their testimonies reflect a growing demand for systemic change in Bixby Public Schools, aiming to create a more inclusive environment that recognizes and nurtures the potential of every child.

As the board considers the future of its special education leadership, the voices of these parents serve as a reminder of the critical need for advocacy and action to ensure that all students receive the education they deserve.