Significant Disproportionality in Special Education
Waconia Public Schools must publicly report by July 1, 2025, that it has reached Year Three status for significant disproportionality in special education. This designation stems from the consistent over-identification of Hispanic or Latino students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) for three consecutive years, as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
As a result, the district is now required to dedicate 15% of its federal special education funds (Part B 611 and 619) to Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CEIS). These funds will be used to support both students with and without disabilities, focusing particularly on the over-identified groups. The district is actively updating its policies, procedures, and services to address this disproportionality.