Continuing story at Emge

It appears that the company wanting to provide special education services to Harmony Emge School District 175 is aptly named: Sequel. This story will continue for some time.

If the plan is approved, up to 16 special education students in the district would be served by a private company leasing two classrooms at Ellis Elementary. There is still state approval to gain and an agreement to forge. The company is still several years away from starting work in the district.

The district put together a three-page letter to parents elaborating on 10 issues. It builds a case for the expertise and resources behind Sequel.

One point that stood out was the ability to keep the youngsters close to home and work towards getting them together with “regular” students. Both groups benefit from being together when possible, but separating when their education needs dictate.

Cost savings is a taboo subject when dealing with education in general and special education specifically, but every school faces fiscal realities. If a private company can better serve the district’s students and save the district money, then that option deserves serious consideration and open minds.

This story was originally published July 31, 2015 at 2:00 PM with the headline "Continuing story at Emge."