Board approves MOA to cover consolidated special‑education classes; administrators promise supports

The Scotia‑Glenville Board of Education voted Jan. 12 to approve a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Scotia‑Glenville Teachers Association to address an immediate staffing configuration in special education.

Administrators said two classes had been collapsed (a k–2 grouping and a 3–5 grouping) and that one teacher—identified in discussion as Miss Haglove—would assume planning, IEP development and supervision responsibilities for the merged groups. Administrators said the change currently adds two students to her caseload and that the MOA recognizes additional work and provides compensation or recognition for the extra responsibilities.

Board members raised concerns about teacher workload and retention, noting the district has experienced turnover in that classroom previously. One board member asked what supports the district will provide to prevent burnout; administrators said the special‑education team and PPS staff have been meeting regularly with the teacher and will follow up with additional supports.

Why it matters: Consolidating small special‑education classrooms can be necessary for program continuity but raises questions about service intensity, IEP implementation and staff capacity. The MOA formalizes district expectations and compensation for the teacher covering broader responsibilities.

Next steps: PPS will confirm historical and current enrollment counts for the affected classroom, monitor workload and report back to the board on supports and any variance sought from the State Education Department.