"Audit raps special education firm," June 26, underscores why we need to overhaul the state's preschool special education program.
Preschool special education provides essential services like speech and occupational therapy to children ages 3-5. Counties, which finance this $2 billion program, are alarmed at audits revealing apparent misuses of taxpayer dollars. The program needs to be refocused on serving the children who need these services.
In the Capital Region, local taxpayers provided $48.5 million to serve 3,810 children in preschool special education during the 2008-09 school year. Local taxpayers are now paying an estimated $80 million a year for the program.
These children are receiving uncoordinated care at the most expensive rate in the nation. Now the need for reform is critical.
Four consecutive governors, a state task force and county leaders have all recommended reforms that would have addressed many of the deficiencies identified in these audits.
There are ways to incentivize schools and providers to make the program more efficient, accountable and effective. It's time for reforms that are in the long-term best interest of the children.
Stephen J. Acquario
Executive director
New York State Association
of Counties
Albany