Finance committee backs recommendation to fund virtual special‑education training by Karen Cunningham

The finance committee of the Utah State Board of Education on Tuesday recommended that the full board pay for a virtual intensive special‑education training taught by Karen Cunningham, using IDEA/IDEIDA funds.

Board member Christina Boggas introduced the proposal after staff research showed two in‑person two‑day trainings would cost about $15,000 each, with venue and accommodation expenses potentially doubling the price. “The speaker cost is $15,000 per two‑day training,” Deputy Superintendent Leah Vorhees said, adding that a multi‑week virtual series likely would be priced around $12,000 because it would eliminate travel and hotel expenses.

Several committee members supported a virtual option to improve accessibility for parents and caregivers. “If a parent doesn’t have access to care for their children, they can still participate in the training from home,” one member said during debate. Members also noted that the training can provide continuing professional development credit for special‑education teachers, increasing its value to districts.

The motion forwarded to the full board asked that the IDEA/IDEIDA funds be used for a virtual intensive training and named Karen Cunningham as the proposed instructor. Committee members asked staff to confirm logistical details — including whether state staff could participate during the training to clarify state‑specific policy nuances — before the full board takes up the recommendation.

The committee voted by voice to forward the recommendation; one member recorded opposition during the vote. The full board will consider the matter at its next meeting.