By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – More students with disabilities in New York are passing Regents exams overall, but state education officials say the achievement gap remains wide. The Board of Regents Monday released a special education report card.
Elementary students with disabilities improved in English, and middle school students improved in both English and math. But officials say middle school achievement remains unacceptably low.
Regents Chancellor Robert Bennett says closing the achievement gap is one of the Regents highest priorities.
"We must assure that school personnel, and families, have the knowledge and skills to effectively assist children with disabilities in attaining high standards," Bennett said.
The report card indicates big gaps for minority students with special needs.
But State Education Commissioner Richard Mills says the state's special education students are now placed in general education classes for 80 percent or more of the school day, surpassing the national average.