Special Education Financing Through Cooperatives
A Path to Fiscal Balance
By Sarah Lager
Asst. Superintendent of Business Services/CSBO
Barrington Unit Community School District 220
One of the most complex financial challenges districts face in public education is ensuring that all students receive equitable access to quality education, particularly those with special needs. Special education cooperatives (co-ops) offer a collaborative solution, enabling districts to pool resources, share expertise and meet legal requirements while controlling costs. This article explores how these co-ops function, examines financing strategies and highlights their role in promoting balanced district budgets.