As HLERK has previously reported, the Illinois State Board of Education engaged in a public inquiry process concerning systemic complaints regarding special education services at Chicago Public Schools. On April 18, 2018, the public inquiry team presented the findings of their inquiry to the Illinois State Board of Education, including 43 findings of systemic concerns. All of the public inquiry team’s recommendations were adopted by the Illinois State Board of Education.
At its Board Meeting on May 16, 2018, the Illinois State Board of Education considered the recommendations from the public inquiry team and the feedback of stakeholders. The Illinois State Board of Education considered how to implement the public inquiry recommendations and how to provide sufficient oversight as to implementation. Ultimately, the Illinois State Board of Education voted to appoint an independent state monitor to oversee the special education program at Chicago Public Schools for three years.
For your questions on special education procedures, please contact Bennett Rodick or Kaitlin Atlas.
