Board approves settlement and several contracts to support special-education services

The Oakland Board of Education on Sept. 16 approved Special Education items A–F, which included a Settlement Agreement and Release covering two date ranges (July 1–Aug. 30, 2025 and Sept. 1, 2025–June 30, 2026) between the district and the parents of one student (the student’s name is on file in the Superintendent’s office).

On related service contracts the Board approved a Letter of Agreement with Good Talking People LLC to provide two hours of speech/language therapy for one student at a total cost not to exceed $340; an Independent Contractor Agreement with Hirsch Enterprises LLC for the 2025–26 school year to provide occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech services at rates of $120 per hour for direct services and $425 per evaluation; and a Contract for School Nursing Services with BAYADA Home Health Care, Inc. to provide a registered nurse for the T.O.P.S. Early Childhood program at $75 per hour.

The Board also approved the Innovations in Modern Education proposal for tiered home instruction at hourly rates of $70 for home instruction and $110 for speech-language or counseling services, and a 2025–26 transportation contract with Barnstable Academy for one student not to exceed $11,543.

The motion to approve the package of special-education items passed unanimously. The Board noted that student names and confidential details are maintained in the Superintendent’s office in accordance with privacy requirements.

Administration will execute the contracts and ensure providers are scheduled to deliver services for the 2025–26 school year.