Special‑education report: Lincoln County meets IDEA compliance; staff highlight services, hires and retention

Special‑education leaders told the Lincoln County Board of Education that the district met federal IDEA compliance indicators for the reviewed year and highlighted staffing and program improvements aimed at expanding services and outcomes for students with disabilities.

The presentation noted the district had 234 students identified for special education at the time of the report, with 17 special‑education teachers, 15 paraprofessionals, a full‑time speech‑language pathologist, and contracted related‑services providers (occupational therapy, physical therapy). Staff said the district recently contracted with a Board‑Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and trained five registered behavior technicians (RBTs) who are local teachers; the BCBA will provide supervision that supports more intensive behavior‑support plans.

Leaders also detailed professional development investments (including Orton‑Gillingham training and co‑teaching sessions that include general‑education teachers), the creation of a sensory room at LCS, and a high retention rate among special‑education staff. Staff acknowledged they want to increase post‑graduation tracking and supports for students with disabilities and are exploring partnerships and programs to improve employment and continuing‑education outcomes.

Board members moved to accept the district’s request to invite the Georgia Department of Education to assist with a facility plan (a separate agenda item), and staff said they will continue to report on staffing, training and student outcomes.