A Statement from the Executive Director on the Dismantling of the US Department of Education

We are deeply concerned about the recent Executive Order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education , particularly in relation to its vital role in ensuring the rights and educational opportunities of children with disabilities. Special Education services, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and civil rights protections under laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are essential to the success and well-being of students with disabilities.

The Rehab Services Administration (RSA), which oversees vocational rehabilitation programs under the Rehabilitation Act, is also part of the Department of Education. RSA plays a pivotal role in preparing students with disabilities for work after school. RSA’s programs provide essential transition services, job training, and employment support that ensure students can successfully enter the workforce.

NACDD is highly concerned about how the critical roles the US Department of Education plays will be filled in the absence of this federal agency, as these services are key to helping students with disabilities achieve independence and self-sufficiency.

Without the Department of Education’s oversight, we fear that students with disabilities will face even more significant challenges in accessing the free and appropriate public education (FAPE) that they are guaranteed by law.

Historically, states have struggled to provide sufficient support for disabled students, and we have serious concerns about their ability to meet the needs of these children without strong federal oversight.?History has also shown us that disabled children who do not receive appropriate and inclusive educations have much, much lower chances of success in adulthood. Without appropriate oversight and enforcement, the possibility of local school districts educating disabled children properly decreases significantly, and the chances of disabled children growing up to become full members of society decreases plummets.?

The Executive Order released today does not identify any specific details about what comes next for children with disabilities. NACDD has questions about how civil rights protections for students with disabilities will be enforced, and how educational services will be provided.

Will there be an adequate mechanism to ensure that schools are complying with IDEA and Section 504? How will the federal government continue to support and guide students, families, schools, and school districts to ensure that IEPs and 504 plans are developed, implemented, and properly monitored? How will students be prepared for life after school? Will there be any services to support students with disabilities successfully move into adult life and the workforce?

This Executive Order threatens to undo years of progress, leaving students with disabilities without the necessary services, protections, and opportunities to thrive. NACDD urges the administration to provide clear answers on how these critical services and protections will be maintained.

We strongly urge the administration to reconsider this decision and prioritize the rights and education of all students, including those with disabilities. We will continue to advocate tirelessly for the resources and policies that ensure every child has access to a quality, inclusive education.

To people with disabilities and their families, to special educators, to our allies, and especially to students with disabilities and their parents: NACDD recognizes these are very uncertain and challenging times. Please know that NACCD and the Developmental Disability Councils across this nation stand with you.

Please reach out to?NACDD?and the governor-appointed DD Council in your state for more information. You can find your DD Council?here.

Jill Jacobs

Executive Director

National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities