Position Papers

The Washington State Special Education Coalition continues to seek ways to inform and educate school boards, principals, teachers, families and policy makers about the broad flexibility which already exists in statute for boards to organize their district and schools for the most effective means of educating students – those with special needs, as well as those without.

The Washington State Special Education Coalition believes that all tax payers and supporters of public schools should understand how funding for special education students works. Only a consistent accounting system can accomplish this.

The Washington State Special Education Coalition (WSSEC) believes that P.L.101-476 (IDEA) is clear and instructive regarding the placement and educational opportunities for special education students. It guarantees a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment (LRE)

The Washington State Special Education Coalition is deeply concerned at the increase in paperwork required at the local district level. Both parents and teachers of special education students feel that the State Forms, developed by OSPI can provide the needed protections of individual students rights, and at the same time provide for appropriate accountability.

The Washington State Special Education Coalition is concerned about the recruitment and retention of qualified and caring individuals in the field of education in general, and Special Education, specifically.

The Washington State Special Education Coalition supports the use of interim alternative placements for ANY student who carries a weapon, or in well documented situations where a student can be determined to be a significant danger to themselves or others.