When reading the article about Sterling School District requesting to sever its ties with Bi-County Special Education, I was appalled. Being a consumer of the educational services as a state employee, I’m extremely concerned children and families the state of Illinois serves will not get the services they’re promised through their Individual Educational Plan.

The IEP is a legal document the school district must comply with as to services for children, such as occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. Bi-County Co-op has provided such services to the highest standard. Many children who were originally educated by the Sterling School District are now in the Bi-County Co-op programs.

Specialized services are needed for our “special” children. Is the Sterling School District ready for lawsuits when they don’t provide the necessary services outlined in the IEP, or when the district is unable to provide an education for a minor due to their disabilities?