A pressing staffing crisis in Alamance County's special education sector was highlighted during the May 19, 2025, Commissioners Meeting. Educators voiced urgent concerns over the lack of qualified personnel to support students with exceptional needs, emphasizing that many of these children cannot access private or charter schools due to their significant cognitive, behavioral, and medical requirements.

Currently, the county faces a staggering 54 vacancies for special education teachers and instructional assistants, along with 17 openings for speech therapists and 7 for school psychologists. This shortage has persisted for years, largely attributed to educators leaving for better compensation in surrounding counties.

Local educators stressed the importance of addressing this crisis, urging the community to support the 2025-2026 Alamance-Burlington School System budget, which includes a proposed supplemental raise for classified staff. They underscored that without adequate funding and staffing, the educational needs of students with autism, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities may go unmet.

The call to action resonated with the audience, as community members were reminded of their role in ensuring that all students receive the appropriate public education they deserve. The meeting concluded with a commitment to advocate for the necessary resources to support these vulnerable students.