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WestEd study finds strengths and gaps in Elk Grove Unified special education services
Summary
A WestEd review presented preliminary findings showing rising special education identification (about 17% in 2026), special-education costs around 22% of district budget, strengths in MTSS and staff dedication, and recommendations on alignment, paraeducator roles, onboarding and family communication.
WestEd presented preliminary results of a district-wide special education systems review at the Elk Grove Unified School District board meeting. WestEd project director Donna Meiners outlined study questions, methodology (surveys, focus groups, IEP reviews, classroom observations) and five theme areas for improvement including systems integration, policies and procedures, learning environments, human and fiscal resources, and family/community engagement.
Key findings presented by WestEd and district staff included that the share of students receiving special education services has risen (district figures cited roughly 15.5% in 2024 and about 17% in 2026). WestEd noted Elk Grove serves a higher proportion of students with autism and low-incidence disabilities and estimated special education represents approximately 22% of the district budget. Strengths identified included a district commitment to MTSS, many dedicated staff, and pockets of strong practice across sites.
The study highlighted uneven implementation of MTSS, inconsistent guidance on program entry and exit, unclear staff roles (particularly for program specialists and paraeducators), uneven paraeducator training and high turnover, and variable inclusion practices across sites. WestEd recommended clarifying districtwide inclusive-education mission and protocols, strengthening onboarding and ongoing professional development, improving multi-directional communication with families and staff, and developing a 3–5 year action plan with near-term wins. The full report is expected at the end of the month and WestEd said it will work with the district to translate recommendations into an actionable plan.
