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Special-education population stable as district enrollment falls, presenter says
Summary
A special-education snapshot showed the district population fell over the past decade while special-education counts remained stable, growing the share of students receiving services to nearly 19 percent; staff said the caseload has shifted toward higher-need categories.
District staff presented a 10-year special-education snapshot showing that while total district enrollment declined from roughly 810 to about 590 (December count referenced), special-education student counts remained stable and now represent a larger share of the population.
The presenter said the composition of special-education needs has changed: categories such as autism and emotional-behavioral impairment have grown as proportions of the special-education population, increasing service complexity. Current staffing includes about 10 certified special-education teachers and about 18 paraprofessionals, with additional paraprofessionals being hired to reach more than 20.
Staff indicated they will analyze service-delivery models and whether proactive intervention in early grades could moderate future special-education demand. Board members asked about regional comparisons and staffing models; the presenter agreed to return with comparative information at a future meeting.
