ECHO, short for
Every Child Holds Opportunity, is an effort aimed at educating state
policy makers about the challenges facing special education. In
addition, the ECHO effort is working to build a statewide coalition
designed to speak with one voice in support of the following goals.
Obtaining additional special education funding
from the state and federal government to address the calculated $2
billion funding shortfall
Creating incentives to recruit, train, and retain special education teachers
Expanding programs aimed at improving
relationships between parents and schools by establishing options for
early resolution of disputes
Ensuring the availability of early intervention
programs and appropriate technology tools proven to help students with
disabilities