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Bethlehem is celebrated as the top-performing school district for general education students—but for special education students, the story is alarmingly different. According to New York State, Bethlehem performs worse than most school districts in the state for students with disabilities.1 Bethlehem has the lowest graduate rate for students with disabilities in Albany County.2 Only 36% of students with disabilities graduated from Bethlehem in 2022 as compared to 90% for Guilderland and 100% for Voorheesville school districts.
Recognizing these problems, New York State designated Bethlehem School District as a District Needing Assistance in Special Education.1 This means that Bethlehem is required to develop a plan to improve and is being monitored by the state.
This isn't just a data problem—it’s a matter of equity, access, and justice. Our students with disabilities deserve the same opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. We cannot let excellence for some mask neglect for others. All students deserve to be a part of this amazing district.
The Broader Community Impact
Families choose Bethlehem for the reputation of our education—but the reality is more complex.
More than one in ten students in Bethlehem has a disability and many more need additional support. These children are directly impacted and are not receiving the same quality education as other children.
When special education falls short, general education absorbs the fallout. It places additional strain on resources and teachers which can lead to unmet needs of all students.
Local homeowners cite the quality of schools as a primary reason for living here. High quality schools drive Bethlehem’s reputation as an appealing community to live in, maintaining property values. Sinking standards for special education erodes our reputation, which has ripple effects on the larger community.
What you can do...
Bethlehem Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA) is working closely with the Bethlehem school district to change this narrative.3 Here's how you can help:
✔️ Join or Donate to SEPTA
Become a member or a supporter: There is no time commitment required to join. Your dues help fund:
Family education workshops
Inclusive events for all families
Community dedicated to supporting students with disabilities
Joining signals that you care about this issue—and that you believe Bethlehem can do better.
📣 Follow & Share Our Posts
Help amplify our message by sharing SEPTA posts and updates. Every share helps us reach another voter, neighbor, or parent who might not know what's at stake.
Follow SEPTA on social media Instagram - Facebook Public Page - Facebook Member Group
Commit to share at least one post
💡 Speak Up for Change
Even small actions can have a big impact:
Start conversations at school and in the community
Ask your school leaders about inclusion and accountability
Ask candidates, elected officials & the board of education about this issue.
Do you know Bethlehem is under state monitoring for special education?
What will you do to ensure we support all learners?
Be a voice for inclusion & equity. Together, we can build a system that works for all children.
1 June, 2025 Bethlehem Board of Education Meeting presentation on Special Education
2 Based on 2020-2023 graduate rates. Data accessed 8/18/25 NYSED Data Site.
3 Bethlehem SEPTA holds inaugural meeting, elects officers - Bethlehem Central School District
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