Schools

Shakopee Was Stop for Student's Journey in MN Special Ed System

Star Tribune used one student's story to explore the complexities of special education.

A Star Tribune article detailing the complexities and costs of special education in Minnesota put a spotlight on one student, Orion Setchell, who tried several schools, including junior high in Shakopee, where he had a negative experience, according to the article:

His new teachers, unfamiliar with tactics that had worked to calm him in the past, tried a different approach, according to a state report. If he was late for class or fell behind on his schedule, which happened frequently, he was denied privileges. The use of sound-blocking headphones, which Orion wears constantly, was sharply restricted.

Orion retaliated with aggressive behavior that included screaming, pulling hair, hitting and kicking. He was suspended for five days after slapping staff members nine times. The assaults and suspensions continued for months, then Shakopee officials banned him from the school and recommended he be moved to a more restrictive educational environment.

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A state education department found the Shakopee district at fault after the student's mother filed a complaint, the Star Tribune reported.

Read the full Star Tribune article.

Find out what's happening in Shakopeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Related:

  • Shakopee West Junior High School
  • Shakopee East Junior High School
  • Shakopee Junior High School Named “Model School”
  • Shakopee School Board Decides Junior High Names


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