During its Nov. 11 meeting, the Bayfield School Board voted to deny a proposed proclamation recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The proclamation, part of a national grassroots effort supported by organizations such as The Arc, the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. and the Council for Exceptional Children, sought to honor the landmark legislation that ensures students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education.
Supporters say the board’s decision sends the wrong message to families of students with disabilities. I am a local disability and family advocate, and I presented the proclamation, noting that numerous school districts and municipalities routinely issue proclamations. Proclamations are symbolic, nonbinding statements, not policy actions.
The board stated concerns that adopting proclamations “sets a precedent” and is “not within their purview.” I believe the decision reflects a broader pattern of exclusion and a missed opportunity to celebrate inclusion and civil rights protections for students with disabilities.
Kristin Dallison
Bayfield
