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9/10/2006 12:00 AM Letters to the Editor, Pioneer Press Kevin Klutho's profile in your article on special education is a great example of why we devote resources for special education: to help students with disabilities develop their gifts and participate in their communities ("Special-ed costs soar, with fewer ways to pay," Sept. 3). All educational spending is an investment in our children, and both regular and special education should be funded at levels that meet students' needs. All Minnesotans benefit when every student has the chance to learn skills and contribute to society. Our state is a more welcoming place when all students, no matter what their ability , have a chance to learn and interact with their peers. Discussion of increased special education costs should be a catalyst for dialogue about adequate educational funding for all students. Commissioner Seagren's proposal to increase the state's contribution is a good start. We will also continue to urge the federal government to meet its commitment to fund 40 percent of special education costs. STEVE LARSON The writer is executive director for The Arc of Minnesota in St. Paul. Real answers on autism? As a parent of a special needs child whose special-ed program was recently reduced due to busing costs, I relate to "Special-ed costs soar, with fewer ways to pay" (Sept. 3). Our federal and state governments may be saving tax dollars short term, but long term, if special-ed programs aren't funded, these students may become adults who need lifelong tax dollar support. Between 2001 and 2005, Minnesota saw a 25 percent special-ed cost increase, 2 percent overall enrollment decrease, 5 percent special-ed enrollment increase and 160 percent autism enrollment increase. Why? Twenty years ago the rate of autism was 1 in 10,000 children. Now, it is 1 in 166 children. Why? The Centers for Disease Control blames this autism epidemic overwhelming our schools on "better diagnosing" and "greater awareness," yet they don't have studies to back up their assertions. We not only deserve real funding, but real answers. HEATHER O'BRIEN | ||||||||||||||||||||
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