3 Ways to Protect Your Child's IEP Today

Key updates on special education funding and practical steps for parents

The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) released an important statement today about changes to federal education funding, and I wanted to help you understand exactly what this means for your child.

As a community of special education advocates and parents, we know that policy updates can create uncertainty. I've spent the last decade helping families navigate these kinds of changes while ensuring their children's educational rights remain protected. What's most important right now is understanding exactly what these changes mean - and don't mean - for your child's daily educational experience, and what concrete steps you can take to stay informed and prepared.

Today, we're going to break down:

• The latest federal policy changes affecting special education funding

• What services and programs remain unchanged

• Practical steps you can take to ensure your child's needs are met

Let's focus on what we know and what you can do right now.

If you're wondering how recent changes to federal education funding might affect your child's special education services, here are the key points and action steps you need to know:

What Remains the Same

The most important news is that core special education services funded through IDEA and Title I remain unchanged. These foundational programs, which fund the majority of special education services in our schools, will continue operating as usual because:

• Current IDEA formula grants are already distributed to states

• Individual student benefits and services continue unchanged

• Your child's IEP remains legally binding and protected

3 Action Steps to Take Now

1. Document Current Services Keep detailed records of all services your child currently receives.

Use a communication log to track:

• Frequency and duration of services

• Names of service providers

• Progress on IEP goals

2. Strengthen Your School Partnership

Schedule a check-in with your child's case manager or special education team to:

• Review current services and supports

• Discuss any concerns about program continuity

• Establish clear communication channels

3. Stay Informed Through Official Channels

• Subscribe to your state's Department of Education updates

• Join your school district's special education parent advisory committee

• Connect with reputable advocacy organizations for accurate information

That's it.

Here's what you learned today:

• Core IDEA funding and services remain stable

• Your child's IEP rights are unchanged

• Proactive communication with your school team is key

Remember: the most powerful tool in special education advocacy is informed, collaborative action. While policy changes can create uncertainty, your role in advocating for your child remains clear and critical.

Start by downloading our free Communication Log Template to track all school interactions and services. This simple tool can help you maintain clear records and ensure service continuity during any period of change.

Together, we'll ensure our children continue receiving the support they need to thrive.

All the best,

Megan

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