These schools are opening their arms to special education students. Can they afford it?
“These resources have a cost, and it’s more than local, state, or federal government provide. To offer its services, Noble Minds has had to rely heavily on outside donations. Last year, 36 percent of its budget came from non-governmental sources. A grant from the Institute for Mental Hygiene, for example, helps pay the clinical director’s salary. The Walton Family Foundation, a pro-charter organization led by the family that runs Walmart, has donated $325,000 for start-up costs. The students are predominantly low-income; in the last school year, 81 percent were considered economically disadvantaged, according to state data.”