As a parent of a child with disabilities, you know how crucial special education services are to your child’s success. That’s why Governor Ned Lamont’s recent announcement about increasing special education funding in Connecticut is something you need to be aware of. His 2025 legislative proposal aims to provide more financial support to municipalities, helping schools improve special education services and reduce reliance on costly out-of-district placements.
Here’s what this means for you and your child.
More Funding for High-Cost Special Education Services
One of the biggest takeaways from Governor Lamont’s plan is an increase of $40 million to the Excess Cost Grant for fiscal year 2027. This grant helps schools cover the high costs of special education services for students with the most significant needs. If your child requires extensive support, this funding could mean better resources, services, and programs in your local school district.
For many parents, the unpredictability of special education funding is a constant concern. One year, your child may receive all the services they need; the next, budget cuts might lead to reduced support. This additional $40 million is meant to provide more stability, ensuring that children with disabilities continue to receive essential services regardless of budget constraints.
New Incentives for In-District Special Education Programs
Another key part of the proposal is the creation of the High-Quality Special Education Incentive Grant program. This program is designed to encourage school districts to provide high-quality special education services within their own schools or in regional programs rather than sending students to expensive out-of-district placements.
The state plans to invest $10 million from the General Fund and $4 million in bond funds to help districts expand their special education programs. This could lead to:
- More specialized teachers and therapists working within your child’s school.
- Better resources and support tailored to your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Fewer disruptions caused by long commutes to out-of-district programs.
For many families, keeping children in their local community is a priority. This grant program could make it easier for schools to create or improve in-district special education services, allowing more children to stay in familiar environments close to home.
A Study to Address Rising Special Education Costs
Another important aspect of the governor’s plan is a study by the Connecticut State Department of Education. This study will examine how other states manage the rising costs of special education—particularly when it comes to tuition for out-of-district placements.
The goal is to develop more predictable funding models that help school districts manage their budgets more effectively. If successful, this could lead to long-term improvements in how Connecticut funds special education, ensuring that resources are available when and where they’re needed most.
What This Means for You as a Parent
Governor Lamont’s proposal is a significant step toward strengthening special education services in Connecticut. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- More funding means better support for students with high-cost special education needs.
- Local schools may expand their special education programs, reducing the need for out-of-district placements.
- A new funding study could lead to long-term improvements in how special education is funded across the state.
However, while this proposal is promising, it is not yet law. Governor Lamont will present his full budget to the Connecticut General Assembly on February 5, 2025, where lawmakers will decide whether to approve these changes.
How You Can Get Involved
As a parent, your voice matters! Here’s how you can support special education funding:
Stay informed. Follow updates on this proposal and how it progresses in the legislature.
Advocate for your child. Contact your local representatives and share why increased special education funding is important.
Engage with your school district. Ask how this funding could improve services in your child’s school.
At Forte Law Group, we are dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of special education law. If you have questions about how this proposal might affect your child’s education, don’t hesitate to reach out.
This funding increase has the potential to bring meaningful improvements to special education services across Connecticut.
Visit our website to know more about Forte Law Group and how we can support you through your challenges.
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Let’s work together to ensure that every child gets the support they need to thrive!