School Districts across Wisconsin received an increase of High Cost Special Education Aid, totaling $10.7 million in June, an increase of over $5 million from the previous year.
A total of 136 school districts and two County Children with Disabilities Education Boards received reimbursements of close to 70 percent of the prior year’s special education services.
Aid comes from $8.5 million appropriated in the 2015-2017 budget. Services that are reimbursed include instructional or transportation aid, attendant care, nursing services, or an educational interpreter.
“Every student with a disability is entitled to a free appropriate public education,” said State Superintendent Ton Evers. “This aid program supports districts in providing required services for students with extraordinary needs.”
Six area school districts received funding:
Clintonville – $59,408, Coleman – $67, 538, Hortonville – $30,714, Oconto Falls – $14, 830, Pulaski – $43,818 and Waupaca $24,360
Separate funding for the High Cost Special Education Aid began in the 2003-2004 fiscal year. The Department of Public Instruction’s 201-2019 budget request seeks an additional $4.2 million in state funds over the next biennium.