• Why Shared Services Agreements Are Cost-Effective:
A shared services agreement allows multiple school districts to pool resources and share the costs of
special education services, such as specialized staff, transportation, or facilities.
This reduces duplication of services, increases efficiency, and helps lower costs without reducing the
quality of education provided.
• Why Federal Maintenance of Effort (MOE) Requirements Matter:
Under federal law, schools must maintain a certain level of funding for special education services to
receive federal grants. Cutting budgets or shifting costs directly to parents would likely violate MOE
requirements.
• Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
A . Shift a portion of the costs in the form of a fee to parents: This violates federal regulations, as
public schools cannot charge parents for special education services.
B . Decrease budget allocation for special education services: This would also violate MOE
requirements and reduce services for students with special needs.
D . Outsource special needs services to a private contractor: While outsourcing can be an option, it
may not always reduce costs and could introduce additional risks (e.g., quality concerns or
compliance issues).
• Reference and Documents:
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Mandates federal MOE requirements for special
education funding.
GAO Report on Shared Services in Education: Highlights cost-saving benefits of shared services
agreements.
