IMPROVING SERVICES
FOR STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DIFFERENCES AND THEIR FAMILIES
"As an advocate for the education of all students in North Carolina, I wholeheartedly support the proposed improvements for special needs education. Each of these ideas has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of our students, families, and educators."
IMPROVE TRAINING
For Parents, Administrators, Teachers and SROs.
ESTABLISH REGULAR COMMUNICATION
Between educators and families.
RETURN TO CONCRETE, OBJECTIVE MATH INSTRUCTION
Will greatly benefit students who struggle with abstract concepts.
REMOVE HANDHELD DEVICES
From K-5 classrooms.
INTRODUCE PARENT ADVOCATES
Into the educational system is crucial for empowering families..
ASSIGN TWO TRAINED TEACHERS
In high-need classrooms.
COLLABORATE
With colleges and universities to ensure all new teachers are well- trained to support all students.
STREAMLINE
The IEP/504 Process.
IMPLEMENT EARLY DETECTION TOOLS
With younger students.
DEPLOY CENTRAL OFFICE STAFF
To be part of an assessment team.
EXPAND
Training in high schools.
BUILD COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
With businesses.
Enhancing training for parents, administrators, teachers, and SROs is essential for supporting students in crisis. By equipping all parties with de-escalation techniques and redirection strategies, we can create a safer and more supportive learning environment. It is critical that everyone involved in a child's education understands how to respond effectively to challenging situations, ensuring that our special needs students receive the care and understanding they deserve.
I strongly advocate for regular monthly connection sessions between educators and families. This initiative fosters open communication, ensuring that parents are engaged in their child's education and can provide feedback and support. These sessions will build a collaborative atmosphere where issues can be addressed promptly, leading to better outcomes for our special needs students.
A structured approach with clear objectives can help build confidence and understanding, especially for students with learning differences. This focus on strengthening foundational skills will be instrumental in fostering a positive learning experience.
I believe removing handheld devices from K-5 classrooms will enhance face-to-face interaction among students. This shift is vital for helping our young learners develop essential social skills, including understanding facial expressions and body language. By fostering real-world communication, we can help students improve their social cues and interpersonal relationships.
Many parents face significant challenges when navigating the special education landscape, particularly when local school boards fall short. Advocates can help guide families through the process, ensuring they understand their rights and the resources available to them, ultimately leading to better support for their children.
I support the initiative to place two well trained teachers in K-5 classrooms with high-need students. This model provides students with the individualized attention they require, allowing for better management and tailored instruction. Additionally, increasing pay for experienced and trained teachers will help retain skilled professionals committed to serving special needs students.
I support a collaboration with colleges and universities to ensure all new teachers are well-prepared to support our special education students. Training programs that include strategies for addressing the unique needs of learners, no matter what their learning differences, will empower teachers to create inclusive classrooms where every student can thrive.
Use NCDPI personnel to assist in the streamlining of the IEP and 504 processes and alleviate the administrative burden on teachers. This change will ensure that special needs students receive timely support and services, ultimately improving their educational experience and outcomes.
Implementing early detection tools, like the NOW Program created by Dr. Conway in Florida, will allow schools to identify and support special needs students early on. Early intervention is key to addressing challenges before they escalate, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources from the start.
Encourage the use of trained district central office staff including exceptional children departments as part of a developmental screener team during breaks to help assess students’ developmental, behavioral, or academic needs before the school year begins. This proactive approach will ensure teachers have the information they need to tailor their instruction and support for each student before the student arrives on their first day.
Increasing trade and technical training programs in high schools will provide valuable skills to all students, including those with special needs. These programs offer alternative pathways to success, enabling students to gain hands-on experience and prepare for rewarding careers.
Lastly, I strongly believe in the importance of building community partnerships with local businesses that serve special needs populations, such as Whirlidogs in Wilson or Awaken in Greenville. These partnerships can provide our students with real-world training and job experiences. Involving these businesses in discussions about educational needs will help create meaningful opportunities for our students with learning differences, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in the workforce.