Public schools are required by federal law to cover the costs of educating students with disabilities. They do not receive enough money to cover actual costs.
Currently, public schools get back about 30 cents for every dollar spent to meet the needs of students with disabilities.
This means public schools must cover the remaining 70 cents with funding intended to support all general education students to meet special education requirements.
“Funding special education benefits all kids. Covering more special education costs means schools have more general education funds for all students,” said Beth Swedeen, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities. “Shortchanging schools by not covering the costs of educating students with disabilities shortchanges all students.”
In 2019, a group of legislators from both political parties recommended increasing how much public schools are reimbursed for the money they have already spent on special education services from 30 to 60 percent.
“Actual special education costs aren’t covered unless schools are reimbursed 100 percent,” said Swedeen. “Wisconsin’s 30 percent reimbursement rate is among the lowest in the nation. A 60% reimbursement rate is not 100%, but it narrows the funding gap significantly for public schools.”
14.5 percent of public school students receive special education services. Students with disabilities often need specialized instruction and services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, transportation, and individual supports outlined in a student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
“Every student deserves a quality education so they can contribute to our communities and economy,” said Swedeen. “The state budget should reflect the actual needs of students with disabilities and the public schools that support them.”
