In an important development for Killeen Independent School District (KISD), an internal audit of its Special Education Department was formally presented to trustees during their Tuesday night meeting. This comprehensive review spotlighted both commendable progress and ongoing challenges within the department, marking a pivotal moment for future improvements.
Insightful Findings and Persistent Hurdles
The audit meticulously evaluated various facets of the Special Education Department, including organizational structure, program management, and the processes for identifying, evaluating, and placing students in need of special services. Despite notable advancements since 2016, the department is grappling with staff shortages and the repercussions of school closures and virtual learning brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Academic performance among students with disabilities showed a mixed picture, with reading scores improving but math scores on a decline. Furthermore, although graduation rates have seen an uptick, attendance and dropout rates are moving in an undesirable direction. The audit underscored the department’s struggle to…
