This podcast contains comments from the April 5, 2021 Bryan ISD school board meeting. Speakers include BISD special education director Catherine George, associate superintendent Barbara Ybarra, and superintendent Christie Whitbeck.

Bryan ISD's special education department is considered to be the "bomb diggity" following an audit by the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

BISD special education director Catherine George told board members during their last meeting that was part of the comments from TEA staff who determined the district received a 100 percent compliance rating.

Dr. George also said two other takeaways from the TEA were (1) Interviews describe a mission to establish a culture of service and joy. The leadership team meets routinely to address campus and system concerns. Administrators are visible, answer questions, and participate in support-driven efforts, and (2) Staff described a concerted effort to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate in extracurriculars and school sponsored events. The district vision is to have students find their passion area and support those interests as much as possible.

Strengths noted in the TEA audit of BISD's special education department included:

● Detailed IEP Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) statements
● Intensive programs of instruction are identified for students as needed
● Accommodations and modifications are provided as evidenced by work samples and artifacts
● Understand the importance of including students’ interests in transition process
● Improved communication and training

Areas of continued focus were:

● Consider opportunities to ensure further collaboration for general and special educators who share students
● Training on and implementation of differentiated instruction
● Continue training in the area of positive behavioral supports
● Monitor for timely updates on student progress