Special education lead outlines focus-class model, staffing review and fiscal adjustments

Laura, the district's special-education lead, presented a multi-part update on services, staffing and program changes underway for Auburn Union students with disabilities.

She noted this is the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and described a strategy focused on building a culture of belonging and improving access to core instruction. Laura said the district's certified fall counts show 248 students with disabilities and that special education services operate along a continuum ranging from general education supports to nonpublic and county regional placements. As part of a fiscal review, staff identified contract reductions and made adjustments to staffing assignments; Laura said an initial trimming of some contracted paraeducator positions produced savings but that enrollment changes and new placements have continued to influence costs.

On classroom practice, Laura described a pilot of "focus" special day-classroom environments that replace rows of desks with learning stations and visual supports designed to reduce behavior disruptions and increase engagement for students who require structured instruction. She said teachers and paraeducators report early improvements in behavior and engagement but that the model is still under development with additional training planned. Laura also described curriculum and assessment steps, including district I-Ready diagnostic use, supplemental programs (Touch Math, STAR) and training for special-education staff to align instruction and IEP goals with district assessments.

Board members praised the work and asked for follow-up on outcomes and cost implications; staff offered to return with additional analysis in spring.