HI SR111

Requests the Department of Education to convene a special education task force to evaluate progress implementing recommendations from the 2010 Hawaii Department of Education Special Education Review by WestEd Center for Prevention and Early Intervention.

Task force shall make recommendations to the legislature on ways to improve delivery of special education services and supports to increase outcomes for students with disabilities.

Task force composed of 10 members including the Senate Education Committee Chairperson, House Education Committee Chairperson, Board of Education Chairperson, Special Education Advisory Council Chairperson, Superintendent of Education, Federal Programs Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and representatives from parent advocacy organizations and community councils.

Task force must submit findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2016 Regular Session convenes.

Resolution addresses significant performance gaps including reading proficiency rates 25 percentage points lower for students with disabilities, graduation rates more than 20 percentage points lower, and higher rates of chronic absenteeism and suspension compared to non-disabled peers.