How does the new special education legislation affect District 90 River Forest Public Schools?
A reauthorized federal law called the “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004” will radically impact River Forest Public Schools. The legislation will require District 90 staff to evaluate and serve all students in private schools within River Forest, regardless of the community in which they reside. Under prior law, the responsibility for providing special education services rested with the school district of the student’s residence, regardless of where a child attended school.
In the new legislation, if a student from Elmwood Park attends River Forest’s St. Luke’s School, District 90 staff is obligated to evaluate this student to determine if he or she qualifies for special education services. If necessary, the District must then provide services to this child. This legislation will at least double the affected student population in the 2006-2007 school year from River Forest private/parochial schools. This legislation has had no impact on the delivery of services to River Forest residents who attend River Forest private and parochial schools. However, its impact on District 90 finances is clear as the public schools will be required to hire additional staff to serve these children.
District administrators have contacted our legislative representatives to express serious concerns with this provision of the new law and have requested a change in the regulations. The District is concerned about the impact of delivering services to this increased base of students who attend private/parochial schools in the village. This is another example of an unfunded mandate imposed by federal legislation that impacts village residents directly as well as affects the District’s financial future. More information on this law is expected prior to the next school year.
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Please let us know what additional information concerning District 90 programs or fiscal challenges we can provide by completing the form below. The most common and appropriate questions will be included on this page in regular, frequent updates. Or, if you prefer, you can telephone the Committee to Preserve River Forest Schools hotline at (708) 488-1647.