1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The Department of Education plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to education for all students, including those with disabilities. Dismantling the DOE and relying solely on state-level oversight would jeopardize the rights and accommodations that nearly 9 million students with disabilities rely on through programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. These federal laws provide crucial protections, funding, data collection, and enforcement mechanisms to support students with disabilities in receiving a free and appropriate public education. Without the DOE's guidance and resources, many schools and districts, especially in rural and underfunded areas, would face significant challenges in meeting the needs of students with disabilities. This could lead to a lack of qualified teachers, therapists, and support staff, as well as a loss of essential services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and accessible educational materials. Ultimately, it would deprive countless students of their fundamental right to an equitable education and opportunity to reach their full potential. Preserving the Department of Education is crucial to upholding the principles of inclusion, equity, and access for all learners, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. We must prioritize the educational rights and wellbeing of our most vulnerable students by maintaining and strengthening the DOE's role in supporting public education and protecting the rights of students with disabilities.