As CRPE reported in 2022 and 2023, the COVID-19 pandemic and related school closures led to unprecedented academic setbacks for all American students. In our third State of the Student report, we turn our attention to how the pandemic impacted—and continues to impact—special populations.
COVID-19 disproportionately affected students with unique learning needs. English learners, students with disabilities, and homeless youth had higher rates of absenteeism, disrupted services, and setbacks. Our analysis points to a dysfunctional system that served these students badly before the pandemic hit and remains inadequate. This report highlights challenges experienced by special student populations and calls on schools, policymakers, advocates, and philanthropists to enact systemic reforms that would benefit all students.
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