The Challenge
Many school teams are under pressure to ensure safety for their special needs students, especially during high-risk moments:
- Transitions between classrooms, therapy sessions, or lunch periods
- Transportation to and from school, including special education buses
- Field trips or community-based learning programs
These scenarios often require additional supervision, which isn’t always feasible due to staffing shortages. Defaulting to 1:1 aides can limit student autonomy and access to general education settings.
Balancing student safety with meaningful participation in school is a daily challenge for educators. In a national survey of special needs families, many shared that while schools often prioritize safety, it can sometimes come at the cost of a student’s independence.
2025