Parents of children with disabilities have been frustrated by delays in resolving complaints of bullying and discrimination by the Education Department. With recent changes, the Department of Justice will now handle civil rights enforcement in schools, and the Department of Health and Human Services will oversee special education. These shifts are part of President Trump’s plan to dismantle the Education Department, but many parents and advocates fear this will lead to more confusion and obstacles. The Education Department’s civil rights office, once a crucial resource for addressing discrimination, has seen a significant reduction in staff and effectiveness since Trump took office. As a result, families and attorneys are seeking justice elsewhere. The changes have left many feeling resigned and uncertain about the future of support for students with disabilities.
QUESTION: How might the transfer of responsibilities for special education and civil rights enforcement impact students with disabilities in the long term?
Families of kids with disabilities warn Education Department changes could break a flawed system
