Greenville County School Board Undertakes Review of Special Education Services Following Tragic Incident

Greenville County School Board Reviews Special Education Department After Tragic Incident

Greenville, S.C. – The Greenville County School Board is currently reassessing its special education services in light of the tragic death of an 8-year-old boy with autism earlier this year. The decision to conduct a review comes after intense public criticism and a request from the family for enhanced disability services. The board is taking steps to improve the support offered to children with special needs in the community.

What is Happening?

During a board meeting on November 12, the subject of the special education department’s current conditions and its historical context was brought to the forefront. Superintendent of Special Education Services, Traci Hogan, confirmed that the last external evaluation of the department was conducted in 2014, signaling a long period without an update on their practices and policies.

Why the Review?

The review is a direct reaction to the dissatisfaction expressed by parents and advocates concerning the adequacy of special education resources. The district is grappling with the challenge of enhancing services to better cater to students with disabilities. A call for an audit was made during the meeting, indicating a serious commitment to making necessary changes.

Who is Involved?

While the decision for an audit is primarily driven by the school board and district officials, input from an external consultant is being sought to ensure a thorough assessment and improve outcomes for students. This consultant is expected to analyze both internal data and feedback collected through focus groups and surveys from special education families in the district.

What’s Next?

As of now, a timeline for the completion of the audit has not been established, and specific companies for the review process have not been disclosed. The school board plans to collect bids for the audit, aiming for its completion within the next year.

Potential for Advisory Council

In discussions regarding the future of special education services, some parents have expressed the need for a local advisory council dedicated solely to this area. Although the U.S. Department of Education does not mandate the establishment of local advisory councils, it encourages them as a best practice. The possibility of creating such a council will be considered after the audit’s findings have been evaluated.

Broader Implications

The review has significant implications for the district’s approach to special education. It highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation of services to meet the diverse needs of students. The hope is that by addressing these concerns, the Greenville County School Board can foster a more inclusive educational environment for all students, particularly those with special needs.

Conclusion

The ongoing review of the special education department in Greenville County represents an important step towards enhancing support for children with disabilities. As the board moves forward with this audit, the community remains watchful, hoping for meaningful changes that ensure every child receives the education and services they deserve.