Is My Child’s IEP in Danger?
- Jenny Webb
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
Recent developments within the U.S. Department of Education (DoE) have raised concerns among parents of children with disabilities who rely on special education services. Proposed changes and budget cuts could impact federal education funding, oversight, and enforcement of laws that protect students with disabilities.
Things to Know:
Role of the DoE: The Department of Education provides funding for special education programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and enforces Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which protects students with disabilities from discrimination.
Potential Changes: Reports suggest that the federal government is considering reducing the size of the DoE, redistributing its responsibilities, or potentially eliminating it altogether. These changes could affect funding distribution, research grants, and oversight of special education programs.
Funding Concerns: Currently, federal funding covers about 13% of the cost of special education services, with the remainder coming from state and local sources. If federal funding is reduced, school districts may need to adjust their budgets, which could impact available resources.
Legal Protections Remain: IDEA and Section 504 are federal laws that ensure students with disabilities receive necessary accommodations and services. These protections remain intact, but changes in enforcement agencies or funding levels could impact how they are implemented at the local level.
Future Uncertainty: If the DoE’s structure changes significantly, enforcement of IDEA and 504 protections may shift to another federal agency, such as the Department of Justice. This transition could bring challenges in monitoring compliance and responding to parent concerns.
While no immediate changes to IEPs or 504 Plans have been made, parents and educators should stay informed about potential shifts in federal education policies and funding that could affect special education services.
