The Chicago Board of Education recently voted to give the Superintendent of Schools much greater authority to change the way education happens in the Chicago Public Schools. Last week, an article in the newspaper described how one suburban school district send their students with disabilities to a program that is not certified by the State of Illinois. Many school districts are facing severe budget problems. One group that always receives blame are special education students. Why? Because their education costs more than for "normal" students.
The summer means that parents are away or pay less attention to what is happening in their school districts. It is VERY important for any parent who has a child with a disability to stay in touch with your school district or special education program. Find out if there are school board meetings that will discuss cutting or reducing programs. Ask the Special Education Office if there are any changes planned for the Fall. Talk to other parents to make sure everyone is staying aware and knowledgeable about programs for their children.