We wanted to share with you a formal statement and action alert we received from our partners at The Arc concerning changes at the Department of Education which could have a significant impact on our TSC community. Additionally, the TSC Alliance has signed onto a Cross-Disability group letter opposing these threats and advocating for those in our community who benefit from these services. The statement from The Arc follows:
Over the weekend, we learned of significant RIFs (Reduction in Force) at the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS). OSERS is the Department of Education office responsible for enforcing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive the services and support they need to succeed in school.
OSERS plays a vital role by:
- Enforcing IDEA and making sure schools follow the law
- Funding programs to train and support special education teachers
- Helping parents understand their rights and advocate for their children
- Overseeing programs that assist employment for youth and adults with disabilities
The rights spelled out in IDEA have not changed, but the ability to access the information necessary to achieve these rights is dramatically limited starting today. Without people in place to enforce the law, states could ignore their responsibilities to students with disabilities. This puts millions of students at risk.
We need Congress to act now. Tell your lawmakers to protect the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. Students with disabilities can’t afford to lose these essential supports.
Below please find links to The Arc’s statement and action alert.
- Link to The Arc’s statement: Federal Special Education Offices Hollowed Out, Putting Students’ Rights at Risk – The Arc
- Link to The Arc’s action alert: Take Action: Cuts to Special Education Protections Are Happening NOW