Board of Education Workshop - October 19, 2026

The La Crosse Public Schools Board of Education held a workshop on October 19, 2026, focused on the district’s special education services and individualized education programs (IEPs). Staff described the federal and state requirements governing eligibility, evaluation, free appropriate public education, and placement in the least restrictive environment. The district serves approximately 1,050 students with IEPs—about 18% of its student population—and explained its evaluation and reevaluation process, IEP development, service continuum, and protections related to student discipline. Staff also discussed collaboration with families and options for addressing disagreements, including facilitated meetings and mediation.

The presentation covered services from early childhood through transition to adulthood, including inclusive preschool and 4K support, work-based learning, postsecondary preparation, and partnerships with community agencies. Board members asked questions about student progress, staffing and instruction, and how students may exit special education when they no longer need specially designed instruction. No procurement activity, contract awards, budget allocations, or spending-related votes were identified.