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Committee advances first readings of educational-programming and IEP policy updates; committee codifies seclusion is not used in district
Summary
The committee considered revisions to policy 601 (Educational Programming and Achievement) and related IEP policy language, including updated definitions, alignment with Minnesota statute and a clear statement that the district does not use seclusion; the committee approved motions to treat the proposals as first readings and scheduled second readings for March 17, 2026.
On March 3 the committee reviewed proposed revisions to district policy 601 (Educational Programming and Achievement) and related policy text for students with IEPs. Presenters said the package folds an older standalone achievement policy (601.01) into 601, updates academic definitions, incorporates equity and culturally sustaining language, and aligns certain elements with recent Minnesota statutory changes and MSBA model language.
Staff described changes that reframe achievement measurement to include summative and formative assessments, social-emotional indicators and additional non-academic measures. Presenters noted updates to special-education sections: the policy clarifies that Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)-type protections apply, extends IEP coverage to age 22, corrects the IFSP scope to birth–age 3, and acknowledges that standalone developmental adaptive physical education evaluations are an option under statute.
On restrictive procedures, presenters said the district will codify current practice. Sarah Delkey, board secretary, told the committee, "We do not use seclusion in ST Paul public schools," and that there are no registered seclusion rooms in the district. Directors expressed appreciation for putting that practice into policy given ongoing statewide discussion.
The committee voted to consider the proposed updates as first readings (committee-level action) at the March 3 meeting and scheduled second readings for the March 17 Board of Education meeting. The motions were seconded and recorded voice votes; Directors Allen, Carrillo, Franco and Valentin voted "Yes." Staff will incorporate requested edits (formatting and clarifying bullets) and return the revised policy package for the second reading.
