Total School Solutions presented the results of a district-wide special education review and proposed a multi-year implementation plan Tuesday, telling the board the district has a "solid foundation" in special education services while identifying multiple areas for operational investment.

Consultants Jane Lawlin, Jamie Wallen and Allison Rose summarized their mixed-method review, which included focus groups, classroom observations, staff and parent surveys and file audits. Wallen said the review reached more than 1,100 staff respondents and included quantitative comparisons with three similar districts.

Among the consultants' key recommendations were:
- Additional external audits for contracts and program operations;
- Development of manuals and clear guidelines (MTSS, PBIS, SST) and psychoeducational assessment and IEP process guidance;
- Enhanced principal training, coaching and classroom-focused supports to improve instructional consistency and inclusion practices;
- Transportation guidelines and a review of staffing and program structure; and
- Creation of a culturally responsive task force and stronger early-intervention communications with intermediary units.

Allison Rose recommended consideration of adding an "assistant superintendent for special education" (title to be refined) to increase capacity and provide district-level oversight; several board members and district leaders supported that idea as a next step. Consultants proposed a two- to three-year engagement with a gradual-release model: initial system and infrastructure work in year one followed by coaching, principal support and ongoing capacity-building in subsequent years.

Superintendent Dr. Birx and board members repeatedly praised staff and consultants for the work and directed administration to return with implementation timelines and follow-up reports. The committee approved moving the consultant engagement forward to the regular board meeting for consideration of consultant services and next steps.