Newsletter #2 - Q&A for Director of Special Education - Judy Norton

Q&A for the Director of Special Education - Judy Norton

We hear about the Early Childhood Center (ECC) in the High School. What is that?
The ECC is a mandated preschool and extended day kindergarten program for children 3-6 years old. It works collaboratively with Early Intervention Agencies (EI) and community programs to provide required education services for children. Each class includes a balance of children who are typically developing students and children with special needs. More information is available on the school website on the Department’s page.

Can you provide a better understanding of the Special Education Budget?
The Special Education budget includes:
Out-of-District tuitions
Special Education Transportation
Supplies
Equipment
Summer Programming
Contracted Services
Evaluations
Special Education Staff are budgeted through each school in the district.

The district budget supports approximately 75% of the special education expenses. Entitlement Grants (state and federal) support approximately 12% of the special education expenses. And the “Circuit Breaker” (a state reimbursement program) supports approximately 12% of the special education expenses.

Did You Know?
The Special Education Parent Advisory Panel (SEPAC) meets monthly to educate parents on Special Education issues as well as provides feedback to School Administration. SEPAC is included on the school website under Departments – Special Education.