Policy for Change: Reforming Education for Special Needs Students
A Call for Accountability and Equity in Special Education
As we face the increasing prevalence of autism, with 1 in 36 children diagnosed, it is imperative that we reform the education system to ensure all children, especially those with special needs, receive the fair and appropriate education they deserve. This policy proposal is a heartfelt plea for change, stemming from the personal experiences of a family navigating a flawed system that continues to fail our children.
Our Story: A Family’s Struggle for Fair Education
In 2020, we moved to a growing community that promised to be inclusive for all children. We had high hopes for our son, Marcus, and even launched a small business in the area to stay close to home. However, when it came time for Marcus to enroll in school, he was immediately met with rejection.
The school’s ESE liaison reviewed an outdated IEP, and without ever meeting Marcus, declared he was not a “good fit.” From that moment, Marcus was denied proper resources, subjected to fabricated behavioral reports. Despite efforts to advocate for him, we were met with constant resistance, and ultimately, we were forced to relocate to Maryland to ensure Marcus could receive the education he deserves, seperating our family.
This experience is not unique. Many families, particularly in communities like ours, face similar obstacles when attempting to secure appropriate education for their children with special needs. The system is broken, and it’s time for change.
Policy Recommendations
To ensure that no child is left behind, the following reforms are necessary to create a fair and inclusive educational environment for all students, regardless of their needs.
- Teacher and Special Education Staff Support Programs
Raise Pay and Benefits: The shortage of trained and caring special education teachers is critical. A national minimum wage and benefits package will make the profession more sustainable and attract more talent to this essential field.
Incentivize Training and Recruitment: Offering scholarships and incentives to those entering special education will ensure a robust pipeline of dedicated educators who are prepared to meet the needs of all students.
- Respect and Formalize the Role of Parent Advocates
Create a Certification Program for Advocates: Parent advocates are often dismissed, despite their crucial role in supporting children with special needs. A national certification program will empower advocates and ensure their voices are heard and respected in the education system.
Require Advocacy Training in Teacher Education: Teachers should be trained to work alongside parent advocates, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture within schools.
- Accountability for Special Education Lawyers
Regulate Fees and Contracts: The financial burden on families to hire special education lawyers should not be exacerbated by unclear fees or contracts. Establishing transparent standards for legal services will ensure families receive the support they need at a fair cost.
Judicial Reform in Educational Disputes: Special education cases should be adjudicated by a neutral, specialized judiciary that prioritizes the unique needs of the child over institutional interests.
- Create Stronger Accountability Standards for Schools
Require Transparent Reporting: Schools must be mandated to report on how they handle cases involving students with special needs, allowing families to make informed decisions and hold schools accountable for their practices.
Reward Schools with Exemplary Inclusive Practices: Schools that demonstrate a genuine commitment to inclusion should be rewarded with grants or funding to set a standard for others to follow.
A Final Plea
This policy is not just about Marcus—it’s about all the children who deserve a fair and inclusive education. The current system has pushed families to their breaking points, forcing them to make difficult decisions that no parent should have to face, such as relocating or splitting up families. We are not asking for special treatment, only for fairness, respect, and inclusion.
By enacting these reforms, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their abilities, are welcomed and supported in our schools. No child should ever feel excluded, dismissed, or unwanted due to their special needs. It’s time for the education system to do better. It’s time for change.
Signed,
Stephanie Cohen