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District Expands Autism Support Amid School Closure Concerns

12/3/2025

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Nathalie Nérée Expands Support

The district plans to expand autistic support offerings to reduce disruptive transitions.
More than 30 elementary and middle schools lack autistic support classes, with limited grade-level services.
Advocates credit improvements since Nathalie Nérée, Chief of Special Education for the School District of Philadelphia, took office, but say more resources and trained staff are needed.
The district's potential school closures could force further transitions for students with disabilities.

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Columbus Schools Budget Cuts

The Columbus City Schools Board of Education plans to vote on budget cuts exceeding $40 million.
The plan could close four schools, including Fairwood Alternative Elementary School by 2026-2027, with Como Elementary and the former Everett Middle School also affected.
It would eliminate up to 60 administrative positions and cut teaching staff, saving about $6.6 million and $34.6 million respectively, while busing changes could limit transportation.

History

Historical Context

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), enacted in 1975, mandated free public education for children with disabilities, addressing historical exclusion in U.S. schools. Despite this progress, the Philadelphia School District struggles to support over 30 schools lacking adequate autistic support classes. Recent budget cuts in Columbus City Schools, exceeding $40 million, threaten to further limit educational access for these students, highlighting ongoing systemic challenges.

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Nathalie Nérée Expands Support

The district plans to expand autistic support offerings to reduce disruptive transitions.
More than 30 elementary and middle schools lack autistic support classes, with limited grade-level services.
Advocates credit improvements since Nathalie Nérée, Chief of Special Education for the School District of Philadelphia, took office, but say more resources and trained staff are needed.
The district's potential school closures could force further transitions for students with disabilities.

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