NEW BRITAIN, CT — State and municipal leaders gathered Monday at New Britain High School to recognize the work of special education staff and examine the growing financial demands of providing individualized education services.
The event coincided with National IEP Writing Day, observed annually on the first Monday in April.
New Britain’s school district serves 2,000 special education students out of 9,000 enrolled.
Statewide, the number stands at 90,000 students across Connecticut’s 508,000 public school population.
Officials underscored the vital role of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), each of which must be tailored to a student’s specific needs.
State Rep. David DeFronzo and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz were among the officials who addressed the importance of early childhood education in reducing later needs for special education.
Officials referenced a statistic that high-quality early childhood education reduces the likelihood of needing special education services by 56 percent.
Despite increased state investment—an additional $40 million for special education was approved last month—districts like New Britain are forecasting significant budget strains.
Superintendent Tony Gasper stated that the district expects to spend $3 million more next year on out-of-district placements, even with in-house programs in place.
The state’s proposed early childhood education legislation, backed by Governor Ned Lamont, aims to expand special education services and fortify the Excess Cost grant. The bill is set for public hearing by the newly formed Special Education Committee on April 21.
