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Parents and community members raise accessibility and special-education resourcing concerns
Summary
Multiple public commenters said special-education students lack adequate on-site supports (wheelchairs, changing tables) and called on the district to ensure classrooms and sites are ready for students with special needs before school starts.
During public comment, parents and advocates described instances of unmet needs in special-education settings and asked the board to prioritize accessibility and equipment. Sachiko Kanatsu said she has attended board meetings for 20 years and expressed outrage that certain schools still lack basic equipment and ADA accommodations, saying "It's come to my attention that the junior high only has 1 wheelchair. You have several children with special needs that have to share a wheelchair." Other commenters recounted unfilled SDC positions and requested more transparency and immediate steps to ensure proper staffing and supports on day one.
Trustees acknowledged the concerns and staff described hiring and contingency coverage plans, including use of TOSAs and substitutes until hires are finalized. The board did not adopt a binding remediation plan during the meeting but thanked the public for raising specific examples and committed to follow up.
