The Senate Education Committee on Dec. 1 approved S-2635, a bill that would create a task force to recommend improvements to special education programs and services in public schools.

The task force would evaluate the practices for classifying and educating special education students; develop best practices for education professionals; create strategies to reduce costs, particularly with placing students in out-of-district settings; and develop standards and oversight to ensure that programs and services effectively address the needs of students and focus on student achievement.

School Boards’ Voice The legislation specifically identifies NJSBA as having a seat on the 17-member panel, to be called the Task Force on Improving Special Education for Public School Students.

The bill, which would call for a report within 180 days after the committee is established, is now poised for a vote by the full Senate.

Involvement in Issue NJSBA has been heavily involved in the issue of special education. In 2007, the Association released a major study, Financing Special Education in New Jersey. The research found special education costs over $3.3 billion dollars a year in New Jersey, with local school districts supporting 57 percent of the costs, state funds covering approximately 34 percent, and the federal government paying for the remaining 9 percent. The research found the major cost drivers are tuition and transportation for out-of-district placement – with out-of-district placements accounting for 10 percent of the special education population, but making up 40 percent of special education costs.

In addition, NJSBA has recognized and encouraged creative programming through the annual Innovations in Special Education award, and NJSBA has been a coordinator of Special Education Week in New Jersey celebrations.