By now, many families have likely heard the news about today’s major announcement involving special education.

The U.S. Department of Education has announced an interagency agreement that would move support for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

OSERS oversees federal programs related to special education, early intervention, vocational rehabilitation, and other services that support individuals with disabilities.

This change raises many questions and concerns for families of children and youth with disabilities. Here is what we want you to know:

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is still the law

Your child’s right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) has not changed. IEPs, evaluations, related services, procedural safeguards, and dispute resolution protections remain in place at this time.

Encircle Families is still here for families

We remain fully committed to helping families, caregivers, youth, and professionals understand their rights, navigate educational and community systems, and make informed decisions that support positive outcomes for children and individuals with disabilities.

Families have an important voice

If you believe students with disabilities need strong protections, effective oversight, and continued support, you may wish to contact your members of Congress and share how IDEA and disability-related services have impacted your child, family, and community.

Find your members of Congress here:

http://congress.gov/members/find-your-member

Or visit:

http://senate.gov/

http://house.gov/

Encircle Families will continue to monitor developments, share updates as reliable information becomes available.

Christopher Tiffany
Executive Director – Encircle Families

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