By AP/KWMU
Jefferson City, MO – Missouri's state Board of Education has backed off plans to reduce special education services for some Missouri pre-school children.
The board had considered changing just which youths with language impairments or developmental delays would be eligible for state aid. The intent was to save money; but more than 300 parents and teachers expressed concerns during a public comment period.
On Thursday, the board approved a final policy for special education services that leaves the pre-school eligibility as-is.
Also, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education said it plans to request $15 million in January to help cover the expected costs.