Test scores are exceptional and there is a new resource center for parents and educators, serving students with a wide range of learning abilities.
Educators in public schools throughout Blaine County have something to celebrate. Special education students (encompassing a wide range of students with learning differences) have achieved proficiency scores in reading and math that are higher than state averages by a significant margin. Eighty one percent of our community's special education students were proficient in reading compared to a sixty four percent average in the rest of Idaho.
In education circles, even a margin of five percent is considered remarkable. To achieve seventeen percent higher than the state average is outstanding. “We have remarkable educators working together as a team to deliver the best education possible for everyone,” says Special Services Director Debi Gutknecht.
It’s not just test scores that are getting people’s attention. A year ago, anonymous donors approached the school district with their own success story. Recognizing that parents of children with special needs and learning differences are looking for resources and support both within and beyond school, they had a vision for a parent liaison and resource center that would serve as a bridge between school and home, ensuring the success of every student.
“We want to ensure that every child, no matter how they learn best, succeeds,” say the donors. “This school district does an outstanding job and we saw a place where our investment could add one more level of support for the incredible teachers, staff, parents and students.”
The Special Education Parent Liaison and Resource Center is located in the DSS building east of the Community Campus. For more information go to http://www.blaineschools.org/Sites/SpecialEdPIC/Default.aspx. Special Education Parent Liaison Kelly Choma is available to meet with parents, students and teachers to provide resources and information. “In the Special Education field, having a resource center like this is exceptional,” says Choma. “It’s a reflection of the values of our school district and community. We want to see all students succeed and thrive with as much support as possible.”