Omaha, Nebraska – The Omaha Public School District has presented families of students with Special Education needs with a challenging decision for the school year: they must either transfer to an alternate school or waive their entitlement to special education services.
The impetus behind this is a stark shortage of specialized teachers within the district.
In response to this issue, Lauren Micek Vargas, backed by her nonprofit organization, Education Rights Council, is extending guidance to Omaha’s special education families.
Vargas stated, “We have coordinated and cooperated with the school district to ensure that these children are placed in suitable environments and receive the essential services and support.”
It’s mandated by federal law that students identified with a disability receive individualized education plans, commonly referred to as IEPs.
However, the pronounced educator shortfall means three institutions—Walnut Hill Elementary, King Elementary, and Central Park Elementary—will commence the academic year devoid of special education teachers. This predicament impacts approximately 140 students, necessitating operational recalibrations by the district.
Susan Christopherson, the Chief Academic Officer for OPS, remarked on the pressing concern: “Given the current circumstances, how do we fulfill the IEP requirements? We are considering directing students to other educational institutions.”
Recently, affected families were apprised of the situation and the choices available. The school district is ready to assist in the transition of these families, or alternatively, they can remain in their current school but abdicate their special education rights.
Elaborating on the gravity of the latter decision, Micek Vargas said, “Opting out signifies relinquishing all privileges associated with being a verified disabled student, which includes supplementary instruction and additional services.”
Should families choose this route, legal stipulations necessitate a reconfirmation of the child’s disability before resuming special education. Vargas added, “Opting out entails reinitiating the entire verification procedure.”
However, OPS emphasizes its commitment to collaborating closely with each family, aiming to reach a solution that avoids this scenario. Christopherson stated, “We are diligently working in tandem with every affected family, endeavoring to ensure that students receive requisite services for the impending academic year.”
Should families choose to transfer, the district has assured provision of transportation and will consider keeping siblings in the same institution.
The Education Rights Council has stepped forward to offer complimentary consultations for any family grappling with this decision.
