LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Joseph Bellino introduced Senate Bill 952 earlier this year to expand special education training for all teachers, allow all parents to file confidential complaints, increase oversight and transparency, and strengthen protections for students with disabilities.
“I sponsored SB 952 because too many families, educators and school officials have experienced frustration with Michigan’s special education system and believe improvements are needed,” said Bellino, R-Monroe. “Supporting students with disabilities should never be a partisan issue. It’s an issue that affects families in every community across our state. The purpose of this legislation is not to assign blame. It’s to bring people together, identify where the system is falling short, and develop practical solutions that better serve our students.”
Nearly 74% of Michigan students with disabilities spend at least 80% of their school day in regular education classrooms, according to the Michigan Department of Education.
Bellino said that means all teachers must understand federal disability laws and how to properly implement student special education plans.
“We are willing to work with anyone who comes to the table in good faith, regardless of party affiliation, geography, or role in the education system,” Bellino said. “Families must have a meaningful voice in this process. Teachers and special education professionals understand the daily realities inside the classroom, and their experience is essential to developing reforms that are effective and workable. Local school administrators must also be part of the conversation because they will be responsible for putting any changes into practice.
“I am open to new ideas and improvements to the legislation. The goal is not to protect every word of the initial bill. The goal is to produce the best possible policy for Michigan students.”
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