Children with disabilities; require LEAs to provide services to private schools and home schooled students at the place of enrollment.
Impact
The bill's provisions call for significant changes in the way educational services are administered to children with disabilities. Under HB1251, LEAs will be mandated to consult with parents and educational representatives to develop individualized service plans that cater to the specific needs of these children. This ensures that special education services are available at federal and state regulated private institutions, as well as within homeschooling structures, thereby promoting enhanced accessibility to needed resources.
Summary
House Bill 1251 seeks to amend the existing Mississippi Code to enhance the educational opportunities for children with disabilities, specifically those who are homeschooled or enrolled in private schools. The bill aims to include homeschooled children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the category of children eligible for state financial assistance. It establishes that local educational agencies (LEAs) must provide these children with a proportionate share of funds, ensuring they receive equitable services at their school location or respective home schooling environments.
Contention
While supporters of HB1251 argue that it strengthens the rights of children with disabilities and provides them with necessary educational resources, opponents might express concerns about the adequacy of funding and resources available to implement these changes effectively. They might also worry about the burden placed on LEAs to adapt to these new requirements within already constrained budgets, which could lead to disparities in service provision across different regions. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the adequacy of oversight to ensure that all children, particularly those in private or homeschooling scenarios, receive the full array of services mandated under the bill.
Dyslexia Therapy Scholarship for Students with Dyslexia Program; expand to allow certified academic language therapists (CALT); to provide dyslexia therapy services.