About

The Co-operative Is Making A Difference

The Co-operative is the only organization of its kind assisting DC charter schools. Without The Co-operative, DC charter schools, many of whom have little or no experience running special education programs, would be on their own to develop high-quality, compliant special education programs that meet the diverse and often complex needs of students with disabilities in DC. DC charters have called The Co-operative’s services and resources “informative and inspirational,” “a huge help,” and “invaluable.” One Special Education Coordinator said, “I wouldn’t have made it this far in the year without [The Co-operative's] generous and incredible support.”

Here’s what Co-operative members have to say:

“The expertise and depth of knowledge regarding special education policy and issues, especially as they relate to LEA charter schools, that the Co-operative has and shares is second to none.” – Alexa J. Kuuskraa, Bridges PCS

“The Special Ed Co-operative provides the essential special education advocacy piece that impacts all charter schools. By joining and supporting the Co-op, charter schools ensure that their needs and rights in the DC community and at the state level are advocated for and protected.” – Stacey Pearl, SEED PCS

“The Special Ed Co-operative provides expert advice and information needed to support special education programs. They help you stay in compliance.” – Col. Norm Johnson, IDEA PCS

“For a new director of special education, [the Co-operative] has been very helpful in getting questions answered around OSSE’s new regs”

“Networking with other charters regarding special ed issues is invaluable.”

“The resources [the Co-operative] provided for training in transition were very helpful.”

“The [Co-operative] gives charters a voice with OSSE and OSEP.”

“The Co-operative’s knowledgeable staff are always available to answer our questions and point us in the direction of useful resources.” - Special Education Teacher, E.W. Stokes PCS