The district superintendent told the school board the recommendation includes $9,700,000 to create 82.2 positions to support students with disabilities, saying the district now serves 11,150 such students — a 17% rise over five years — and that the complexity of needs is increasing.

The superintendent said the recommendation would fund 24 positions at comprehensive schools, 13.8 positions to expand specialized instruction, and 12 positions in the birth‑to‑5 program. As part of a reorganization of the Division of Specialized Instruction and Early Intervention Services, the administration plans to open the Marley Glen Center at Severn Run High School next fall. He described the center as a ‘‘school within a school’’ for students ages 16 to 21 that will offer expanded curriculum, inclusion opportunities and supports intended to maximize college, career and community readiness.

The superintendent also highlighted investments related to early education and alternative programs: $4,100,000 proposed for the New Village Academy Public Charter School opening in the Annapolis Mall and $1,100,000 for 8.5 positions and other needs to open the Carver Early Education Center in Crofton, expected to accommodate 120 prekindergarten students. He said these investments are intended to expand options for students who have not found success in traditional settings and to expand pre‑K access.

The presentation positioned the special education and early education investments as part of a broader strategy to protect staff and deliver services amid constrained resources; the proposals were presented to the board for consideration, not as final decisions.