District special-education leaders presented a standalone program update covering services, staffing, compliance and spending; administrators said local funds cover nearly half of special-education costs, cited about 953 yearly initial evaluations (78% eligibility rate), and warned that the district would need roughly $11.5 million more to reach the statutory 92% reimbursement level.

KSDE told the committee that special education is funded through a separate appropriation (2025 appropriation cited at $611,000,000) and that districts currently cover substantial uncovered costs—KSDE cited roughly $400 million of local spending to meet needs not covered by state appropriations.

Division of Budget Director Adam Proffitt presented the governor’s FY27 proposal including $50.6 million SGF for special education, $12.1 million to cover HR1 SNAP administrative cost shifts, $30.9 million to complete a regional mental health hospital and contract‑staffing funding for state hospitals.

SEAC chair Dr. Lena Kisner reported Kansas met federal State Performance Plan requirements for 15 years, added a virtual‑school voting representative, and flagged growing IEP counts and varied service delivery models in virtual schools.

Sarah Newton highlights student achievements in reading at Holton Middle and High School.

Miss Deidra reports successful audit results affirming funding accuracy for special education staffing.

Staff implement early screening measures to improve instruction and student outcomes.

Members emphasize the need for prevention to manage learning disabilities sustainably.

Kansas committee discusses newcomer definitions, special education services, and funding disparities.

Officials consider reallocating $500,000 from special education to enhance early intervention programs.

Officials analyze strategies to manage rising costs in Kansas special education funding.

Committee reviews Kansas education funding models focusing on special education state aid changes.

Task force debates measurement approaches and funding efficiency for at-risk student programs

Extended School Year program begins for middle and high school special education students today.

State allocates over $75 million to enhance special education funding for FY 2025.

State Board adjusts funding model to address disparities in special education support for districts.