Board approves contracts for New Story, IU 13 services and supplemental special-education supports

The Solanco School District Board approved multiple special-education contracts and an estimated unit-cost worksheet for 2025-26 after administrators described the district’s continuing need for regional services.

Doctor Keeler and Mrs. Haverly briefed the board on the agreements. New Story School Services, an alternative center-based program that provides emotional-support and autistic-support services, was described as a seven-year partner; the district expects four students to attend under the contract but the agreement permits placements as needed. The board approved that contract.

Administrators described a package of services from Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13 (IU 13), including speech-language, occupational therapy and physical therapy, and a broader consortium agreement for special-education services and interpreter support at vocational sites. Keeler said IU 13 offers an equipment-lending library (notably for physical-therapy equipment) and hourly billing so the district is only charged for services delivered. The board approved IU 13 contracts covering speech, OT/PT, a PCA supplemental services agreement (a contingency backup the district does not expect to use but wants available), job-training contracts that support postsecondary transitions, and the consortium agreement that aggregates those services.

Keeler emphasized the PCA supplemental contract is a no-cost contingency unless services are used; the district sought board approval to preserve the option so it can respond quickly if multiple high-need students enter the district.

The board also approved a special-education unit-cost worksheet — an estimate of anticipated hours and costs for IU 13 services, Lancaster County CTC supports, interpreters and other special-education needs — and a membership agreement that gives the district access to special-education legal advice through a consortium arrangement with the legal firm Sweet Stevens.

All of the items were approved by voice vote in a grouped motion; administrators noted that the budget worksheet numbers are estimates and that IU 13 bills by the hour, so actual costs will vary with student placement and services delivered.

Ending: Approvals keep the district’s special-education service options in place for the coming year and preserve contingency contracts the administration says help respond quickly when students with complex needs enroll.