MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — Darnestown Elementary Learning Center in Montgomery County is cutting staff for students with autism and parents are outraged.
Silvia Hou's 6-year-old son, James, is one of dozens of children in the program. Hou told WUSA9 her son has significantly improved since being in the program.
“He has made a 180, he was speech delayed, not responding to anything. Today, I can say he can read, do simple sentences,” Hou explained.
Currently, Darnestown ELC has 60 students, with 12 paraeducators. A paraeducator is an extra teacher in the classroom. MCPS said it will reduce the number of paraeducators to six this upcoming school year.
Councilman Will Jawando told WUSA9, that he was told the reduction has nothing to do with budget cuts, but rather a reduction in upcoming enrollment. He assures parents this will have no impact on services.
“I understand the concerns, they are valid, I’m going to get responses to parents, and that we ask MCPS about why they made this move.” Councilman Jawando said.
Eugene Kim’s son is also in the program, he fears his son’s education will suffer.
“They’re saying they’ll keep the same support and effort but how? You take away the paraeducators, you’re taking the potential to support the kid. If there are no paraeducators, then they’re wandering, running away from school and the teacher.” Kim said.
In a statement, Montgomery County Public Schools said:
“Parents view the reassignment of paraeducators as a reduction of the program. However, it remains true that every student with an IEP will receive the services identified for them.”
Councilman Jawando said the cuts will begin in August. The six paraeducators will be reassigned to other locations across the county.
Do you have a news tip on this story or any other story? We want to hear from you. Tell us about it by emailing newstips@wusa9.com.
MORE WAYS TO GET WUSA9
DOWNLOAD THE WUSA9 APP
Apple App Store: WUSA9 News on Apple
Google Play Store: WUSA9 News on Android
HOW TO ADD THE FREE WUSA9+ APP TO YOUR STREAMING DEVICE
ROKU: add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching for WUSA9.
For both Apple TV and Fire TV, search for "WUSA9" to find the free app to add to your account. Another option for Fire TV is to have the app delivered directly to your Fire TV through Amazon.
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE WUSA9 NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to our daily WUSA9 Newsletter for top stories from WUSA9 curated daily just for you. Get content and information right now for can’t-miss stories, Commanders content, weather, and more delivered right to your inbox.