Join us for this virtual series of engaging conversations with experts. These discussions examine issues related to race and disability in special education and in education more broadly, and explore how systems can actively improve conditions and outcomes for Black students.

Released last summer, this paper offers guidance for state education agencies on building local school systems’ capacity to support students with disabilities returning for the 2020/21 school year. The brief identifies key learning and legal considerations for SEAs to keep in my mind as they assist local school systems’ planning. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the education community, the brief remains as timely as it was eight months ago.

Because students with disabilities, like all students, have a range of needs, educators will need to consider how best to support each student’s unique situation. Two recent briefs provide guidance for district and school leaders, and teachers.

When the Alabama State Department of Education began an effort to improve outcomes for students with disabilities, the task seemed like “moving mountains, requiring a comprehensive effort across the department,” says Assistant State Superintendent Elisabeth Davis. Learn how Alabama leaders collaborated with the National Center for Systemic Improvement at WestEd and took, in Davis’s words, “strategic steps together to align systems and our work across the state to meet the needs of the whole child.”

Watch our archived webinar to learn how Halifax County Public Schools used a special education systems review process to improve student outcomes and streamline costs.

Download this guide to explore the six components that a system must have in place to operate a well-functioning special education program. 

Our COVID-19 web page offers evidence-based resources and guidance to help you continue making a positive difference in the lives of children, youth, and adults through this challenging time.

View a complete list of WestEd's 2020 resources designed to support all learners.