Imagine being a student with a learning disability and not getting the support you need, not because services do not exist, but because the system responsible for delivering them fails to act. For many students in Florida’s Jewish day schools, this has been the painful reality. That is beginning to change, thanks to the Robin Greenberg Services for All Initiative, a groundbreaking program ensuring that students in private Jewish schools receive the same special education support as their public school peers.
The Problem
Until recently, families had to pay thousands of dollars, typically between $3,000 and $6,000, just to have their child evaluated for a learning challenge. Even then, school districts often failed to uphold their legal obligations to support students with disabilities in private schools. As a result, less than one percent of private school students received services, compared to 14 percent of public school students.
The Solution
The Services for All Initiative, launched under the leadership of Malka Kownat, Director of Government Programs at Teach Florida, is tackling this injustice head-on. Teach Florida’s team, including lead advocate Kelly Walker and other dedicated advocates, has worked closely with families and schools to navigate the evaluation process. At the same time, the consulting firm ADAC has prepared formal complaints to state and federal agencies to ensure that school districts comply with the law and restore funding for services our students have been denied. The impact has been significant.
The Results
- 117 students were found eligible for special education services last year, compared to just 20 the previous year
- This led to $1.2 million in federal funding, translating into $3.6 million in services over three years
- For the first time, school districts are providing services like speech therapy, counseling, and academic support directly at Jewish day schools
- Evaluations that once took a year or more are now happening much more quickly
This year, Teach Florida’s team is already working with 124 students and expects to assist between 150 and 175 by year’s end. That represents an estimated $1.6 million in services this year, or $4.8 million over three years. The program has also stepped in to support families in urgent situations. One parent, whose child had cancer, received $32,000 in educational support after connecting with the initiative.
Fighting for Change
Beyond Florida, Teach Florida has submitted complaints to the U.S. Department of Education highlighting how some school districts have mishandled federal special education funds. If successful, these actions could return millions of dollars in services to the students who need them most.
But this program is about more than just funding. It is about fairness. It is about ensuring that students with disabilities are not overlooked or left behind.
Looking Ahead
For the 2025 to 2026 school year, the program plans to support 200 additional students, continue improving the evaluation process, and expand access to direct services. The goal is to create a system where families can get timely support without unnecessary delays or confusion. When students with disabilities receive the help they need, it opens the door to building more inclusive schools—places where all children, regardless of their challenges, can thrive in an environment that reflects their identity and values.
That is what true equal access looks like. And this movement is only just beginning.