Special education has unique needs. Whether it be adaptive technology or the staffing of a speech pathologist, the DeKalb County Special Education Association has made it easier for districts in DeKalb County to do so for years.

Although the dissolution of the DCSEA will bring some setbacks to the district, the adaptations being made could bring forth positive change.

Kari Cremascoli, assistant superintendent for support services of the DeKalb County School District, said each district has its own strengths and weaknesses, but by each district being able to hire their own staff and look over a smaller group of students, schools can better cater to their needs.

“The benefit to the dissolution is the districts get a better form of central control,” Cremascoli said. “We can better tailor to the unique needs of our students and staff.”

Brianna Mcginn, junior elementary education major, thinks it is a shame the association is dissolving and every child deserves equal education, but at the same time it could be better for the students to get into a less restrictive environment.

Despite all of the inevitable hard work taking place before the dissolution, if the needs of students and faculty can be better met, change isn’t necessarily a bad thing.

“I think that in light of the preparation that all the districts have been doing to get ready for the change, it has taken a lot of time and energy, but it will benefit the kids,” Cremascoli said.

Cremascoli mentioned many changes have been taking place over the years, and due to more independent districts not taking advantage of the services, dissolution was the next change necessary.

The only setback is for the smaller districts who were more reliant on the association. These schools might have more difficulty adapting because they will need to hire more staff for the education of those with special needs. If they fail to do so, there may end up being a heavier load on teachers already working for the district.

Cremascoli said members will still meet every so often to exchange ideas as a support system, and the community has also offered its support by becoming active in the idea process.

At the heart of the dissolution, the needs of children are still the most important factor. This change has the potential to improve the services provided to them, as well as give schools the opportunity to grow.