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District reviews special education profile; board praises AVID showcase
Summary
District staff presented the May special education profile showing 276 child count for 2023–24, a reduction in separate placements, and increases in higher education/training outcomes; board members also praised an AVID showcase and encouraged attendance at the fall event.
District operations staff presented the May special education profile for the 2023–24 school year and directors reflected on a recent AVID showcase during the board’s May 21 meeting.
The presenter walked the board through key data points: a child count of 276 (as of Dec. 1, 2023) for the special education program; steady percentages in regular-class placements and a notable decrease in separate-school placements, which staff said indicates fewer students placed out-of-district and more students being served within North Marion. For graduation metrics, the presenter reported that 63% of the small special education cohort graduated with a regular or modified diploma (other exit types include extended diplomas, certificates of attendance, participation in transition programs, or continuing as fifth-year students). Staff cautioned that small cohort sizes can make percentages swing with one or two students.
The presenter also highlighted increases in post-school outcomes: higher education participation rose to 20% (from 13% the prior year) and other employment/training figures increased, suggesting improved post-exit readiness for students who receive services. The district noted suppressed results on certain assessments where counts were too small for reporting.
Board members praised Cheryl’s work supporting special education students across the district’s four buildings and emphasized the value of serving more students in-district. Directors also reported on the AVID showcase, describing it as energizing for teachers and students, noting schoolwide structures that support college readiness and suggesting the program complements the district’s CTE emphasis. One director encouraged attendance at the fall AVID showcase.
Why it matters: The profile provides a data snapshot used for planning special education services and staffing; increases in post-school outcomes may inform program decisions and professional development.
Next steps: No action was required; the profile will remain posted on the district website and staff said they will continue to monitor data and refine supports.
