Oregon Department of Education to form committee for early childhood special education reform

In a pivotal meeting of the Oregon Senate Committee on Education, lawmakers gathered to discuss House Bill 2682, a proposed measure aimed at modernizing early intervention and early childhood special education services in the state. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as representatives highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of the existing funding model, which has remained unchanged since 2011.

State Representative Courtney Neron, who introduced the bill, emphasized the importance of these services for Oregon's youngest learners with disabilities. "These programs are foundational," she stated, noting that they currently support over 14,000 children from birth to age five. Under federal law, these services are not just beneficial; they are a legal requirement. However, Neron pointed out that the outdated funding model does not reflect current best practices or the evolving needs of families and educators.

The proposed advisory committee, to be established by the Oregon Department of Education, will study and develop recommendations to modernize the service levels for early intervention and early childhood special education. This committee is expected to consider research and family experiences, ultimately submitting a report to the legislative assembly by September 15, 2026.

Dana Hepper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Children's Institute, echoed Neron's sentiments, stressing the necessity of updating the funding model. She highlighted that the current service levels do not align with the needs of children with disabilities, who often receive fewer hours of preschool compared to their peers. Hepper also raised concerns about the fluctuating caseloads faced by educators, which can lead to overwhelming workloads as the year progresses.

The discussions underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive in their educational journeys. As the committee deliberates on this crucial bill, the hope is that Oregon will take significant steps toward a more equitable and effective early education system. The outcome of this initiative could reshape the landscape of early childhood education in the state, setting a precedent for how services are delivered to some of its most vulnerable learners.