Task force finds big growth in special education; board urged to validate recommendations with external review

Task force members and special education leaders presented growing caseload pressures to the board on Jan. 14, saying the district’s special education population has climbed about 30% since 2021 and shows concentrated increases in higher‑need categories.

District special education leaders summarized findings from a multi‑stakeholder task force (including parents, teachers and principals) and ranked top recommendations: add behavior interventionists at every school, expand targeted training on challenging behaviors and autism, revise transition processes to support students moving between levels, and create clearer staffing review procedures prior to placements.

Special education director Mrs. Babin and Miss Van Hovind said concentrated growth in autism (+32%) and developmental delay (+26%) requires more intensive instructional supports, BCBA coverage and setting‑specific interventions. Babin noted the district has recently added teachers and paraprofessionals and two BCBAs, but said systems and infrastructure are strained.

Board next steps: trustees discussed whether to commission an outside validation (LeanFrog) to confirm findings and identify operational efficiencies. Several members favored commissioning the consultant but asked to align timing with the district’s financial planning; LeanFrog quoted a validation fee (~$14,500) during discussion. Administration indicated it would return with a proposal for external review at a subsequent meeting to allow full board consideration.