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Board adopts state model special‑education policies and approves staffing MOUs for in‑school supervision and class coverage
Summary
Waterloo Local adopted the state's special education model policies and approved two memoranda of understanding: one allowing paraprofessionals to monitor in‑school suspension and another enabling paraprofessionals to provide class coverage with additional compensation.
The board unanimously approved the state‑recommended special education model policies and procedures, a comprehensive guide covering initial evaluation, IEP timelines and best practices. Superintendent said the district will provide evidence of adoption to the state before the November 30 deadline.
The board also approved a memorandum of understanding with Waterloo Education Association allowing paraprofessionals to monitor in‑school suspension (instead of requiring a certified teacher). "This allows us to use a paraprofessional to monitor insole suspension opposed to having a certified teacher," the Superintendent explained. Separately, the board approved an MOU for class coverage between Waterloo Local and a partner district to permit qualified paraprofessionals to lead self‑contained classrooms in a teacher's absence; compensation adjustments were included ($50 additional for a full day; pro rata for half days).
Officials characterized both approvals as staffing and compliance moves designed to ensure student supervision and classroom continuity when teachers are absent.
