1995-03-27 School Committee Minutes

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REGULAR SESSION MINUTES 2 MARCH 27 1995 ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION CONTINUED: Ghirardi, Mrs. Coco and Mrs. Sykes. Mr. Twomey wants everyone to have an opportunity to speak. There was discussion about changes in the law. Mr. Cummings feels that Special Education is a difficult issue. He wished it known that none of the School Committee Members were against Special Education. He feels that students benefit from Inclusion but that there are issues associated with Inclusion. Strengthening the role of the Building Principal is a good idea. There was much discussion about the law. Mr. Cummings feels that the schools should not be responsible for Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Sensory Therapy and Nurses. The cost of these services increase faster than 2 1/2% per year. These costs are non direct educational costs which zap funds from the education budget. We should receive some relief for these costs at a state level. Mr. Twomey noted that the Town's ability to predict and plan costs of Special Education is quite difficult. Mrs. D'Antona echoes the comments of her colleagues. In addition to Special Education needs there are also behavior and emotional problems that cost money. Mrs. Hamilton acknowledged that Nursing and Transportation are concerns of the parents too. Insurance Companies will not pay for Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy etc. If a student cannot hold a pencil how will they be able to do their work? Social services will not pay, the state will not pay. What does one do? Mrs. Mirkin noted that Chapter 766 is sometimes used to keep students in school. If a child has a behavioral problem, a parent could ask to have the child evaluated. If the school identifies a special need the town has to provide a long term plan. If the school finds no special need, an outside evaluation may be necessary thus keeping the child in school. Mrs. Hamilton stated that redefining disabilities and definitions is not the answer. Many disabilities are not picked up until age eight. Mr. Twomey welcomed Paul Casey. Mrs. Cavicchi said she philosophically supports Special Education. Inclusion is good but it has had its rough spots. She feels that the Legislators should help out with the ancillary costs. Mr. Twomey said the Town must meet all the needs of all the students. We are not in the Transportation or Medical business. He would like to focus on education not all the other costs. Mr. Cummings feels 766 needs a full assessment. Reading has been a good example of Inclusion. Early Intervention is very important.