At the September 24 meeting of the Arlington Special Education Advisory Committee Dr. Kelly Krug, Director of Elementary Special Education, and Heather Rothenbuescher, Director of Secondary Special Education, discussed APS’s new Student Support Manual. The manual details the new, streamlined student support process and “ways in which you can partner with your child’s school should concerns arise regarding your child’s academic, social-emotional, and/or behavioral needs.”

Dr. Krug and Ms. Rothenbuescher also presented an overview of Arlington’s special education population and the performance of the special education program on a variety of metrics.

Finally, they discussed the release of a consultant's evaluation of APS’s special education program later this fall, opportunities for ASEAC and members of the public to learn about the consultant’s findings and recommendations, and opportunities to provide feedback. Attendees also learned about an online survey APS uses to capture feedback on families’ experiences with its special education program. This survey could be used after any meetings or other interactions with the special education program and staff. 

The committee also discussed its priorities and meeting schedule for the year, opportunities for getting involved in ASEAC subcommittees, and suggested revisions to the School Board’s new policy on bullying. Full minutes of the meeting will be available here. The next ASEAC meeting is scheduled for October 22, 2019, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., Syphax Education Center – Rooms # 456.