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Gateway Unified contracts with Presence Learning after district unable to fill speech-pathologist vacancies
Summary
The board approved a contract with Presence Learning to provide speech services after the district reported three open speech-pathologist positions it could not fill. The district budgeted about $300,000 for contracted services while continuing recruitment efforts.
Gateway Unified School District approved a contract with Presence Learning to provide speech therapy services after district leaders reported they have been unable to fill three full-time speech-pathologist vacancies.
Why it matters: Special-education speech and language services are mandatory for eligible students. District staff told the board current budget plans include three full-time speech positions and an approximately $300,000 contracting line to cover services if in-district hires are not available.
What staff reported: The director of special education reported the district has maintained one remote district-employed speech position but has been unable to recruit additional certified speech-language pathologists despite offering incentives. Staff said the district has used classroom aides to supervise students while they receive remote services. The board approved the Presence Learning federal agreement to ensure students receive services while recruitment continues.
Board discussion: Board members asked about alternatives and county-district collaboration; staff said other local districts have successfully hired by increasing pay or using different recruitment approaches, and that the budget includes contingency to reduce contracted spending if in-district hires materialize.
Vote: The board approved the contract; the meeting transcript records an aye vote on the motion.
Follow-up: Staff said they would continue active recruitment, evaluate the contract if internal hires are made, and report back to the board on service delivery and expenditures.
