District 158 looks to improve special education

With federal cash expected to flow in and three administrators on their way out, special education in Huntley Unit District 158 is at a crossroads.

How the district alters the program and replaces top staff could determine whether parents eye district officials with a wary eye or become partners in improving their children's education.

District 158 leaders are hoping for the latter as they move to allocate federal dollars, establish dialogue with parents and complete a top-to-bottom review of the program.

"Every year, there is a certain area that we take a look at. It's time to take a look at special ed," Associate Superintendent Terry Awrey said.

A top concern will be how to spend the $1.6 million the district expects to get in federal stimulus money for special education next year.

District officials have said they plan to spend half the cash on special education and the other half on existing expenses - a plan that has generated opposition from some parents, who say the money should benefit only special-needs students.

"We consider it a gift to these kids who are uniquely challenged and need a lot of help," said Huntley resident Linda Betzold, mother of a 13-year-old with severe autism. "Even if it is allowable, I feel it's unconscionable."

School districts can spend half of the federal stimulus money for special education on existing programs, according to the Illinois State Board of Education.

But officials said this month they will meet with parents in July to seek input on how to use the federal dollars.

"Nothing is written in stone at this time," Awrey said.

At the same time, the district is trying to revive a advisory group for parents of special-needs children.

Already, some parents have questioned district officials' motives in reaching out to parents.

"I don't think it's sincere," said Nancy Shannon, mother of an 8-year-old with a communication disorder. "I think they know what they're going to do, and I don't think they care what the parents think. "

But district officials say they sincerely want parents to have a stronger voice.

"We have advisory groups in every area of our school district," said Awrey, who is leading the effort to establish a parent committee. "It's just another way of getting two-way communication."

The advisory group will have plenty to discuss; district officials have launched a comprehensive review of special education and plan to implement an action plan in the fall to improve the program.

The district is also working to replace special education director Meg Schnoor, assistant director Renee Erickson and early childhood coordinator Susan Kondrat. All three have accepted positions in other districts.