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Special education share rises to 24% as district enrollment declines, staff tell committee
Summary
District staff reported Fayette County's special education population at about 24% currently — higher than the state average (~15%) — and explained that falling total enrollment has driven the rising percentage even as absolute special education counts remain similar to prior years.
Dr. Don McPherson presented the committee with special education enrollment figures and explained the district's legal obligation to serve eligible students.
He reported approximately 539 special education students (18%) in 2022–23, about 603 students (22.8%) in 2023–24, and a current count of roughly 590 students representing 24% of enrollment. Dr. McPherson and committee members noted the district's special education share exceeds the state average of about 15%, and they attributed the rising percentage in part to declining overall district enrollment rather than solely to increases in special education counts.
Committee discussion referenced the district's use of Unique Learning Needs rankings and comparative data from neighboring districts. Chairman Warner Speakman emphasized the district's legal responsibility to serve every eligible special education student regardless of external service availability. The committee acknowledged the report and took no further action at the meeting.
