Standing strong for students no matter what

In this time of turmoil concerning federal oversight of education programming, thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts, and ERC's ongoing commitment to educational access for all children.

Notwithstanding the many changes being discussed about education in our country, children continue to have the right to safely attend school and receive the education that both state and federal law provide. This includes the panoply of academic instruction school districts offer, as well as special education rights and obligations. We may be frustrated about the overturning of long-standing processes, but now is not the time to withdraw. Rather, we will be here to protect the education of children from any and all harms.

In the United States, there has never been a federal right to education. Our states and our local districts provide that. States accept federal funding for various programs in exchange for agreeing to comply with federal regulation.

People have asked about the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education. Moving funding and administration of educational programs to other agencies doesn't eliminate the multitude of federal and state laws protecting children, including Title I funding for low-income schools; the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA); the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA); Fostering Connections to Success and Increasing Adoptions Act of 2008; the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (ICWA); the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA); the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504). Changing a department structure does not eliminate these legal protections created by Congress, and ERC will be with all of you to ensure legal protections remain.

We are concerned that freezing funding and eliminating jobs while restructuring will cause disruption, confusion, loss of supports, and will be harmful. However, we know that the passion of school teachers, the commitment of our state senators, and the determination of parents, guardians and all those involved in ensuring our children have promising futures endures. ERC remains more committed than ever to ensuring ALL children access education and thrive. It is our duty to protect all children, and there is work to be done.

We will continue to vigorously advocate for educational excellence and equity with purpose and perseverance. Please contact ERC directly at 402-263-6200 with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,
Lauren

Lauren Micek Vargas
CEO, Education Rights Counsel