NJSBA is sponsoring a year-long project on special education in New Jersey. The study will result in recommendations on reliable standards of student achievement, state and federal funding, and local cost efficiency. It will also showcase best practices.

Researchers are analyzing special education data from the state Department of Education. However, much of the critical information is available only from local school districts. NJSBA, therefore, has sent a survey to all superintendents and special education coordinators. Due Dec. 15, the survey seeks data, as well as opinions on cost and funding issues and the impact of regulations.

Why should my district return the survey?

• Special education funding is one of the core issues in the Legislature’s debate over school finance reform. In addition, it will be a focus of strategies involving shared services and consolidation.
  
  
• By completing the survey, your district will weigh in on proposed solutions for special education funding and program improvement.
  
  
• The highest possible rate of return will ensure that the study’s conclusions are representative of all school districts.
  
  
• Why is broad representation needed?
  
  
• Many aspects of special education affect individual school districts – and various types of districts – differently.
  
  
• Districts from every geographic region, district factor grouping (socio-economic ranking) and grade organization/operating type need to sound their voices on special education issues.

What has been the rate of return?
Already, responses have come from more than 19 percent of the state’s school districts, representing 19 percent of New Jersey’s students. Initial responses show a comparable return by region. However, we need more representation from the lower- and higher-end district factor groupings.  We also need a greater response from K-6, K-8 and K-12 districts.

Must all survey questions be answered?
Some items may not be applicable or the data might not be readily available. Please complete what items you can and return the survey.

My district has an exemplary program. Can it be cited in the study?
Please let us know about your program. The study will identify 20 case studies of cost-efficient and effective special education programs. Districts may nominate their own programs through the survey instrument.

When is the survey due?
Dec. 15, 2006.

Who is conducting the study?
NJSBA has secured the services of MMI Associates. Principal researchers are Mari Molenaar and Michael Luciano, who have a combined total of more than 75 years of experience in special education. Dr. Molenaar has served as senior research analyst for the state education department’s Office of Special Education. Luciano has extensive experience as special education director for local school districts.