District news
Special education falls short of a state compliance target
What happened
On September 1, 2026 the special education director reported 571 students with disabilities, about a quarter of students. The district scored 77.83 on the state's special education determination, short of the 80 needed, and 8.36% of students with disabilities are served at home (homebound) against a state target under 1.4%. The district also has 9 special education teaching vacancies.
Why it matters to families
Families of students with disabilities may see changes to services as the district works to meet state requirements.
The evidence
In the September 1, 2026 recording, staff say "We had to have 80 points to meet requirements. And we had 77.83", "we are at 8.36% for homebound students" and "28 immediate teaching vacancies."
The source
September 1, 2026 board meeting recordingSee the full record for McDowell County Schools.
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