PURPOSE OF PRESENTATION:  To provide Board members with an update of The District Management Council’s (DMC) study of special education services to Frederick County Public School (FCPS) students.

BACKGROUND/SUMMARY:  DMC is working with FCPS on a three-year project to improve the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and equity of special education services to FCPS students.  With this information, the district will be able to administer thoughtful and informed decisions to improve the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and equity of special education services provided to our students.

PROCESS STATEMENT:  Beginning in early May, 2015, and as an initial step in this study, DMC representatives conducted focus groups with a cross-section of central office and school-based staff to gather thoughts, concerns and ideas related to the FCPS special education program and services provided to students with disabilities; focus group participants also shared their day-to-day activities and responsibilities as they relate to special education.  In addition, scheduled visits were made to specific schools enabling DMC representatives to observe classrooms supporting students with disabilities while demonstrating specialized programs as well as co-teaching lessons.  Numerous meetings and telephone conferences with appropriate staff have been ongoing as well.  On September 2, 2015, a retreat with central office and school staff was held; at that time, DMC representatives shared their findings. 

Later in the process, DMC will help codify practices what will best serve our students, as well as help with the development of staffing guidelines to assist with the budget.

PRESENTER(S) & TITLE(S):

Terry Alban, Ph.D., Superintendent

Mike Markoe, Ed.D. Deputy Superintendent

SUBMITTED BY:  Mike Markoe, Ph.D., Deputy Superintendent