Special education is a fundamental part of a student’s right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). It is not separate from education. It exists to ensure that students with disabilities can access learning, receive individualized supports, and fully participate in school alongside their peers.
We are deeply concerned by efforts to move oversight of special education and student civil rights away from the U.S. Department of Education. These protections are rooted in education law and have long been connected to the systems responsible for ensuring schools meet their obligations to students with disabilities.
The Department of Education plays a critical role in safeguarding students’ rights, supporting accountability, and ensuring schools have the resources and guidance needed to provide equitable educational opportunities. Separating special education and civil rights enforcement from the education system risks creating confusion, weakening oversight, and making it harder for families to access the support and protections their children deserve.
These changes could have significant consequences for the more than 181,000 Washington students who receive special education services. At a time when many schools are already working to address gaps in resources and services, students and families cannot afford additional barriers.
Open Doors for Multicultural Families stands with students, families, educators, and advocates in protecting the educational and civil rights of children with disabilities. We believe special education belongs in education, and civil rights protections belong where students and families can most effectively access them.
Take Action
Contact your federal elected officials and urge them to protect special education services, civil rights enforcement, and the funding that supports students with disabilities.
Senator Patty Murray
(202) 224-2621
murray.senate.gov/write-to-patty
Senator Maria Cantwell
(202) 224-3441
cantwell.senate.gov/contact
Find Your U.S. Representative
congress.gov/members/find-your-member
Or call the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121 and ask to be connected to your Representative’s office.
Your voice matters. Tell Congress that students with disabilities deserve strong educational protections, meaningful civil rights enforcement, and the resources they need to succeed.