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Lancaster School District highlights inclusion gains for students with disabilities
Summary
District and Antelope Valley SELPA officials told the school board the district increased inclusive placement for students with disabilities from 43% (2018–19) to roughly 68% within five years and reported measurable gains in ELA and math, while saying work remains.
Rosemary Napoleon, Antelope Valley SELPA program administrator, told the Lancaster School District board the district has pursued a deliberate shift toward inclusive practices and reported growing participation of students with disabilities in general education.
"In 2019, it was 43%, and within 5 years, it rose up to 68%," Napoleon said, and she added that academic outcomes were improving: "In 2025... 64 percent of students with disability improved in English language arts. 59 percent improved in mathematics." Napoleon credited pilot schools, learning centers, and leadership at individual sites for the gains.
The presentation traced the district’s work from program changes to systemwide alignment: district leaders described phased transitions away from segregated special-day classes at selected schools, establishment of learning centers, and a coaching model to support inclusive instruction. Napoleon named site leaders and departments involved in the effort and emphasized the district strategic plan and social-emotional supports.
Board members responded with praise and noted the data signals progress but also remaining priorities. The superintendent and trustees reiterated that the district intends to sustain momentum on inclusion, with board members requesting continued reporting on outcomes and site-level implementation.
The board did not take formal action during the recognition; the item concluded with thanks to Napoleon and district staff and a move to the next agenda item.
