Norfolk Public Schools outlines special education funding and application process

In a recent work session held by the Norfolk City Public Schools Board, key discussions centered around the application process for federal funding aimed at supporting special education programs. The meeting, which took place on April 2, 2025, highlighted the ongoing commitment of the school division to provide quality education for students with disabilities.

The session began with an acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts between the finance team and the special programs office in preparing budget projections. The application, mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), requires localities to work closely with private schools and parents of homeschooled children to ensure equitable access to educational resources.

As of the latest report, Norfolk Public Schools is serving 4,658 students with disabilities across 12 out of 13 disability categories. The only exception noted was deafblindness, a rare condition that affects a small number of students. The funding application process is crucial, as it determines the allocation of federal funds that flow from the government to the state and then to local schools.

A significant portion of the proposed budget, totaling approximately $7.8 million, is earmarked for personnel services, including salaries and benefits for special education teachers and support staff. This funding is essential for maintaining the necessary staffing levels to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities, especially as the division faces challenges related to overall student enrollment declines.

During the meeting, board members raised concerns about potential decreases in federal funding and the implications for special education services. The special programs office reassured members that, while funding levels can fluctuate, there has not been a significant decrease in recent years. The state has instructed school divisions to prepare for level funding, which provides a degree of stability in planning.

The discussion also touched on the importance of integrating student outcome data into the funding application process. Board members emphasized the need for the plan to reflect the goals set by the school board, particularly in addressing the needs of students with disabilities. The special programs office acknowledged the challenges of aligning funding with educational outcomes but reiterated their commitment to ensuring that all students receive the support they need.

As the meeting concluded, the board was reminded that the application must be submitted to the Virginia Department of Education by May 9, following the anticipated approval at the next school board meeting on April 23. The ongoing efforts to enhance special education services in Norfolk reflect a broader commitment to inclusivity and support for all students, ensuring that every child has access to a free and appropriate public education.