Parent voices concern over special education transition and lack of district communication

At the Woodland Park School District RE-2 public comment period, parent and advocate Shannon Valero told the board she had attempted repeatedly to get answers about an ongoing transition of special education services and the effect on students' Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

"Families are left wondering about staffing adequacy, compliance measures, resource sharing, and most importantly, how their children's IEPs and accommodations will continue without disruption," Valero said. She added that she had sent the district the same questions three times without a response and urged the board and administration to "prioritize transparent and consistent updates to families."

Valero asked whether a provider called Chancelight had already begun administering the program or whether that would begin next school year; she said there had been no communication to clarify those details. The board's public comment rules, read earlier in the meeting by the presiding officer, reiterated that personnel and individual student matters are confidential under Colorado law and should be handled in executive session when appropriate.

Other public commenters addressed unrelated topics, including the board retreat facilitator and praise for staff and student musicians.

What happens next: The transcript records Valero's request and the public comment but does not record an immediate administrative response or a formal board action on the special education transition at this meeting.