This project examined the growing demands on special education and Section 504 evaluation systems through the interconnected pillars of Quality, Timelines, and People. Using workload data, staffing analyses, and compliance requirements, the study explored how increasing referral volumes and evaluation complexity have affected the capacity of Educational Diagnosticians and Eligibility Coordinators.
Findings revealed that current staffing levels are not keeping pace with service demands, resulting in significant workload overages, increased reliance on after-hours work, and heightened risks to compliance, service quality, and staff sustainability.
The project was presented to the School Board as a data-driven justification for expanding student services staffing, including requests for additional Eligibility Coordinators and Educational Diagnosticians. The analysis highlights the critical role of strategic staffing in maintaining timely, equitable, and legally compliant services for students while supporting long-term workforce sustainability and organizational effectiveness.