San Antonio’s largest school district, Northside Independent School District, has a population of around 17,600 students who receive special education services. This makes up about 18% of the district’s 97,000 students across 132 schools. Following the layoffs, numerous groups, such as Disability Rights Texas, continue to be highly concerned. The Texas chapter of the American Federation of Teachers also expressed their concern about the lack of oversight.
In accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, special education students qualify for the Individualized Education Program. This program provides students with disabilities personalized support and services to aid in their learning. As the layoffs took effect, all but five top officials were fired from the special education office that oversees the execution of the IEP.
“These cuts are especially dangerous given that protections for students with disabilities often hinge on sustained, expert oversight — from investigations of complaints to guidance and monitoring of state and local compliance,” a member of the Texas American Federation of Teachers said.
The Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach organization is located just outside of San Antonio and assists with advocating for children with disabilities. Pamela Allen, CEO of Eagles Flight Advocacy and Outreach stated to Express News, “long-term effects of the layoffs could mean a delay of non-compliance judgments of IDEA in the states.” San Antonio’s largest school district assured families it will continue to comply with the federal law, pledging to remain under the guidance of the Texas Education Agency, Texas Association of School Boards and the Department of Education.
“Our students who have special education needs are general education students first, and we’re doing our very best to ensure that they receive the appropriate education so they can thrive alongside their non-disabled peers,” Northside Independent School District Executive Director of Student Services Kathleen Cuevas said.
With the absence of usual federal oversight, families who are concerned with the quality of their child’s education can advocate for them through the Texas Education Agency, which is actively “working alongside their districts,” Cuevas said.
As of Nov. 8, the government shutdown and layoffs are still active. Advocacy groups across the country continue to voice their concern about how the lack of oversight will reduce the consistency and quality that IDEA has created for special education students. Cuevas assures families of Northside’s commitment, agreeing that it is crucial to continue to comply with federal law by upholding the laws set through IDEA and IEP.
The senior director of the Disability Justice initiative worries that the long-term effects will be a decrease in overall quality of education, causing worse employment outcomes for disabled people.
