Student Services: Looking Ahead

SSD Student Services is continuing to strengthen a continuum of supports that emphasize early identification, inclusive practices, and collaboration among general education, special education, families, and community partners. Key priorities moving forward include:

1. Strengthening MTSS implementation to ensure timely, data-driven interventions prior to referral to special education.
2. Ensuring appropriate identification practices to maintain compliance and equity.
3. Building staff capacity through professional development and shared responsibility across general and special education.
4. Maintaining strong early childhood supports, particularly for students ages 3-5, to improve long-term outcomes.
5. Continuing to monitor trends in disability categories to ensure staffing and programming align with student needs.

Recent growth in special education enrollment, particularly in OHI (Other Health Impairment)  and early childhood services will require adjustments to staffing levels, including special educators, related service providers, and paraprofessionals, as well as additional investment in professional development to support inclusive practices and effective MTSS implementation.

By proactively investing in MTSS and early intervention, the district aims to use its resources efficiently while meeting legal obligations and ensuring that students receive appropriate support in the least restrictive environment.