Special Education—Both Sides of the Equation

Local educational agencies (LEAs) continue to require substantial General Fund contribution to cover special education programmatic costs in personnel, service delivery, and administrative support, despite several years of increased state special education funding for special education programs. For the 2024-25 school year, LEAs face tightening State Budget resources, challenges with staffing and service provision, and tough choices in the face of minimal increases to special education funding. Continuing compliance monitoring, demands for compensatory education, learning recovery needs, and systemic staffing shortages may make it challenging to operate legally defensible programs that effectively maximize personnel and fiscal resources to ensure equity and access for students with disabilities. It is more important than ever for special education leaders and fiscal colleagues to plan and implement special education programs focused on student needs in alignment with the initiatives and accountability plans of the district. In an era of tightening resources and systemic shortages, collaborative local decision-making about how to align actions and prioritize decision-making that will result in improved student outcomes will be crucial. This webinar will provide participants with up-to-date information on funding changes, tools for effective program management aligned with fiscal responsibility, and tips on ways to ensure equity, promote inclusive practices, and improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

Who Should Attend?

This webinar is a must for staff responsible for effectively managing, funding, and monitoring special education programs, as well as principals and instructional leaders working to successfully implement a meaningful multi-tiered system of supports and improve outcomes for every student.

Cancellation Policy