Mars Area School District administrators revealed plans to improve special education programs at an informational meeting on Monday night but many parents remain frustrated.
Superintendent Dr. Wes Shipley addressed nearly 50 community members in attendance about steps that will be taken as part of the district’s “Corrective Action Improvement Plan,” including parent training and staff training.
The district recently received an audit from the state about deficiencies in the Mars special education program.
Although administrators and school board members admitted that making the necessary changes will be a challenge, they say the work has already started with training for a Life Skills program that will be implemented this fall in kindergarten through 4th grade. Mars is also planning on hiring a new director of special education. Keystone Consultants, an educational consultant group, has assisted administrators this year.
Over 15 concerned parents spoke about individual cases on Monday, as well as the situation in general, with many demanding more money and staff be devoted to special education programming. Transparency on this issue is expected to be improved with quarterly meetings like this one that provide updates as well as provide opportunity for question and answer exchange.
Written By: Ryan Saeler for the Butler Radio Network
