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Parent urges district-wide neurodiversity training, universal design and on-site specialist
Summary
A Waunakee parent and DI‑committee member asked the board to adopt mandatory staff training on neurodiversity, implement Universal Design for Learning, hire an on-site neurodiversity specialist, and create a parent resource center.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, Jackie Sacobiak introduced herself as a parent of three district students and a member of the district’s DI committee and urged the board to adopt a set of changes to better support neurodivergent students.
Sacobiak outlined several proposals: mandatory neurodiversity education for all staff, intentional efforts to dismantle ableist beliefs, broader adoption of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) practices, employment of an on-site neurodiversity specialist to coach staff and problem-solve classroom practice, and creation of a parent resource center. She said many teachers already use inclusive practices but that districtwide adoption would reduce staff burnout and better support students.
She also attributed several points to broader trends and sources: she stated that about 20% of the population is neurodivergent (presented as her assertion) and cited brain‑science advances and advocates who have reframed neurodiversity as a strength. Sacobiak criticized punitive disciplinary practices she said remain in use and urged a shift from treating symptoms to addressing underlying causes.
No formal board action followed the public comment; the remarks were recorded in the meeting minutes and the speaker provided handouts to the board as part of her three‑minute comment period.
