Where does Special Education stand in terms of the weakening economy, state wide budget cuts to education and the rising cost of services? It sounds overwhelming!
Throughout this whole process our focus will remain on the individual student. IEP teams are still obligated to plan for access to the general curriculum in a manner that will enable the student to make progress. This will not change.
We will, however, make certain that our resources are wisely appropriated.
We will have to make certain that our classes are filled before opening new classrooms
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- We will have to make certain that our classes are filled before opening new classrooms
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- We will have to be certain all assistive technology is appropriate for a student
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- We will have to share materials with colleagues and we will have to make certain that services are provided in a fair and consistent manner
What can parents do in support of special education services and education overall at this point in time?
Our Arizona Legislators are now in the process of making budget decisions for 2009 – 2010. This could include a 24 million dollar cut to education in SUSD alone. It is important to voice concerns regarding these cuts. You can contact your state senators and representatives through this web site. www.azleg.gov
Your SEPACS Board is represented on the Scottsdale Parent Council. This gives all of us very credible visibility and a voice. Please watch for current updates and opportunities to participate in this organization’s projects and initiatives.
Another way to voice concerns/opinions is to contact your senators and representatives in Washington, DC. They had the ability to vote for a stimulus package that would come to Arizona, address education funding and in particular, funding for special education (IDEA). Access to this communication can be found at www.congress.org
Also, last but certainly not least, please let your local school board know how much we appreciate their support. Our Board members have been very supportive of special education; they have spent time visiting classrooms, learning about specific disabilities and understanding the resources needed to meet the needs of our students.
If we all address this budget crisis with reliable information, positive suggestions for solutions and a willingness to work collaboratively, we will succeed in maintaining a quality program that we have worked together to provide.
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