The Arc Upper Valley is aware of reductions in the paraprofessional workforce within Grand Forks Public Schools. We are monitoring how these changes may affect students with disabilities.
Last week, parents and leaders from the Grand Forks Special Education Unit participated in a Special Education Parent Advisory Committee (SEPAC) meeting. SEPAC allows families and district personnel to share perspectives and collaborate on special education services. We value the district’s commitment to this process.
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Parents raised concerns about reductions in special education paraprofessional staffing. Administrators discussed contributing factors, including district budget considerations, responsible use of resources, the state’s school aid formula, special education funding and staffing levels.
Parents encouraged the district to clearly communicate with families and staff about the staffing changes, their rationale, and student impact. Families were not informed before the school year, while staff learned about the changes as they returned in August. With concerns also raised before the Grand Forks School Board this week, continued communication and collaboration are especially ...