This is another story in OPB’s series on the state of special education. You can read the first story here, the second story here, and the most recent story here.
OPB’s series on the state of special education has featured students, parents, and staff members across the Portland area. The series has found that some students with disabilities are missing out on school while staff are stretched thin trying to deal with increased needs.
Education reporter Elizabeth Miller recently spoke with a top staff member at one of Oregon’s largest school districts, Beaverton special education administrator Kelly Raf, about the challenges she sees from the district office.
This transcript has been lightly edited for clarity.
Kelly Raf: Special education is a field that is always growing and evolving. We’re always responding to the increased needs that we’re seeing in