Placer County Grand Jury Relocation of Severely Disabled

Upon learning of the proposed sale, parents of special needs students became concerned their children would be relocated or mainstreamed into different schools in South Placer County without consideration of their disabilities, some of which are life-threatening.

In November 2016, based on some of the parents’ objections, PCOE modified their sale proposal to include a 10-year leaseback of Onorato Education Center to keep the SMD students on the same campus.

PCOE became very proactive and accommodating in their communication to the public, especially after the parents’ response to their initial announcement. Weekly communications through emails and phone calls to parents, staff meetings, parent focus groups and BOE meetings brought many positive changes to the initial plan.

After reviewing the final recommendations, the Board of Education, Placer County Office of Education, Newcastle Elementary School District and the parents of special needs students all complimented each other for partnering together, listening, advocating and participating in a decision to positively benefit all of the 55 students affected by this change of location. Conclusion The Grand Jury commends the Placer County Office of Education administration. PCOE has been proactive in gathering information from parents and teachers as well as making site visits to improve the future conditions of the 55 students in the special needs program in Placer County. With the decision to move forward with the sale of the Kentucky Greens property, the extensive plan will benefit all parties involved and provide long-term special needs education in updated facilities. The Grand Jury commends the Board of Education and the Placer County Office of Education for their collaborative work.