Columbia, MO: District to add 6 SPED classrooms; includes "calm-down spaces"

Sept 6, 2025, Columbia Missourian: In-district special education program to be discussed at CPS meeting;

Students receiving special education services in private settings would transition to a new, in-district program under a proposal up for discussion Monday by the Columbia School Board. 

The program would start with a phased rollout for kindergarten through fifth grades in the first year of operation, expanding gradually to all K-12 grade levels, according to School Board documents.

The proposal includes the addition of at least six classrooms for special education students. Additional space would go toward a range of uses, including flexible learning areas, calm-down spaces, a gym, a cafeteria and a playground with a 10-foot wooden fence, according to the documents.

Enhanced security for the new program would include cameras and controlled access.

Certain areas, such as classrooms, therapy rooms and offices, would require a fob for entry and exit. Cameras would be placed in common areas, classrooms, therapy rooms, calm-down spaces and outside. . . .