Board approves request to seek waiver so special-education extended school year runs 15 days

Dr. Hedegaard told the board the law requires an extended school-year special-education program that equates to 20 school days of service but noted Amador has historically compressed the instructional minutes into 15 days. To continue that practice the district must request a waiver from the California Department of Education.

"The law requires that this program be offered for 20 school days over extended breaks," Dr. Hedegaard said, and explained that the district's waiver request is intended to preserve program delivery while addressing staff availability. She told trustees bargaining partners support seeking the waiver and that the Community Advisory Committee took a neutral position—preferring 20 days but acknowledging staff limitations.

Trustees moved and seconded the item and approved the district's request to seek the waiver. Board members asked clarifying questions about staffing and the CAC stance; staff said the 15-day schedule helps the district avoid running into the July 4th holiday and is more feasible for recruiting summer staff.

The board's approval authorizes district staff to submit the formal waiver application to the Department of Education and to continue consultation with bargaining units and the SELPA community advisory committee. Implementation and final program dates will depend on Department of Education approval and subsequent staffing confirmations.