School Board outlines 6-year strategic plan for special education enhancements

The Mt. Lebanon School District held a discussion meeting on May 13, 2025, focusing on the strategic plan and special education updates. The meeting began with an overview of the strategic plan, which is set for cyclical monitoring in March 2026. Dr. Schuman provided insights into the special education state report, clarifying that it is a compliance-based document submitted every three years. This report outlines current practices and staffing but lacks the depth of the strategic plan, which aims to enhance district programming beyond mere compliance.

Dr. Schuman emphasized that the state report does not allow for the inclusion of additional initiatives or feedback collected from the strategic plan, which aims to implement best practices and evidence-based curricula. Board members expressed satisfaction with the district's efforts to expand classrooms to meet student needs, particularly in areas such as autistic support and life skills support.

Discussion also touched on the growth of a new program at Foster Elementary, which has seen an increase in enrollment from 1-2 students to 8 within a year. The district is prepared to accommodate incoming students for the upcoming school year, with budget provisions already in place.

Board members praised the comprehensive nature of the strategic plan, noting the transparency in presenting data and the incorporation of feedback from various focus groups. Dr. Schuman outlined that the plan is a six-year initiative, with annual goals aligned to ensure accountability and progress. The meeting concluded with a commitment to prioritize actionable steps within the strategic plan, focusing on both time and resource management to achieve the district's objectives.