Purpose of the Bill

The legislation aims to establish a pilot program designed to enhance educational outcomes, safety, and accountability for students with disabilities. This involves creating inclusive educational frameworks and addressing service delivery costs.

Main Provisions

• Grant Program: The bill mandates the Department of Education to create a grant-funded pilot program starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
• Key Goals: The program focuses on improving student achievement, increasing access to general education settings, fostering positive school environments, and managing service delivery costs.
• Collaborative Approach: Involvement of students, families, community leaders, and the Department’s Special Education Advisory Panel is required to redesign inclusion frameworks.
• Selection Process for Grantees: Proposals must outline:
  • A detailed timeline for implementing program goals.
  • Plans for inclusive educational models adaptable for diverse student needs.
  • Differentiation between mainstream and true inclusion models.
  • Methods to address accessibility needs, sensory accommodations, and assistive technology.
  • Strategies to integrate students from restrictive settings into general education.
  • Emphasis on neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed practices.
  • Universal Design for Learning principles and staff training on ableism and disability inclusion.
• Reporting Requirements:
  • By July 1, 2026, a report on the program's effectiveness will be submitted, including best practices and cost-benefit analysis.
  • By July 1, 2027, a comprehensive evaluation report will be submitted with final best practice guidelines and assessment tools for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

Significant Changes

• The bill introduces a statewide approach to inclusivity in education, emphasizing the transition from mainstreaming to true inclusion models that cater to the needs of all students in general education settings.
• It requires measurable outcomes such as improved student achievement, reduced disciplinary actions, and increased extracurricular participation.
• The initiative includes extensive training on ableism and fostering an inclusive environment for staff members.

Relevant Terms

• Educational outcomes
• Students with disabilities
• Inclusion models
• Mainstreaming
• Neurodiversity-affirming practices
• Trauma-informed practices
• Universal Design for Learning
• Ableism