Trump Administration Drastically Cuts Special Education Oversight During Shutdown | TNNEWS

Major Layoffs Impact U.S. Department of Education’s Special Education Oversight

In a significant move by the Trump administration, sweeping layoffs were announced on Friday, severely affecting the U.S. Department of Education’s office dedicated to special education oversight. This decision has sent shockwaves through the department, as reported by multiple insiders.

Impact on Special Education Funding and Services

The reduction in force impacts numerous staff members responsible for managing approximately $15 billion in special education funding. These funds are crucial for ensuring that states provide necessary services to the nation’s 7.5 million children with disabilities.

“This is a devastating blow to the office that protects the rights of children with disabilities,” stated one department employee, who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation.

Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) Hit Hard

According to sources, nearly all staff in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) were affected, except for a few top officials and support staff. This office plays a vital role in supporting students with disabilities by providing guidance and ensuring state compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The layoffs are part of a larger reduction of 4,200 jobs across various departments, as detailed in a recent court filing amidst the ongoing government shutdown.

Concerns Over Compliance and Oversight

Rachel Gittleman, president of AFGE Local 252, expressed concerns, stating, “The impact of these cuts on the 7.5 million students with disabilities is just beginning to unfold.”

Employees affected by the layoffs were informed they would remain employed until December 9.

Ensuring Rights Under IDEA

NPR interviewed several federal workers from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, who expressed concerns about unmet responsibilities that could leave states, school districts, and families in a difficult position.

The IDEA, which celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, guarantees children with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education. Before its enactment, many children were denied access to education or placed in inadequate facilities.

State Accountability and Federal Oversight

OSERS staff are responsible for reviewing state plans, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with federal law. They also provide technical assistance and can initiate investigations if states are not meeting requirements.

Without these staff members, “there is no oversight to ensure all children with disabilities receive the services they deserve,” one employee noted.

Direct Support to Families

OSERS staff also handle numerous calls from parents seeking guidance on their child’s rights under federal disability law. “People don’t realize how many calls we receive daily from concerned parents,” shared an affected worker. Now, these calls may go unanswered.

Returning Control to States

President Trump has frequently advocated for returning educational control to the states, and dismantling the Education Department is part of this vision. However, eliminating these positions does not currently affect special education funding to states.

A state director of special education expressed concerns about the lack of federal oversight, stating, “It’s crucial for states to know they are accountable. Leaving special education entirely to states is risky, as interpretations of the law may vary widely.”

Legal and Compliance Concerns

Questions have arisen regarding the legality of the cuts to OSERS. Federal law mandates the existence of an Office of Special Education Programs within the Department of Education to manage special education funding and programs. Closing the office by terminating its staff should require congressional approval.

“The federal government is now out of compliance with federal disability law,” one OSERS employee remarked. Another questioned, “Who will families turn to when there’s no one left to help?”