Protect Students with Disabilities

In light of recent events at the U.S. Department of Education and actions that threaten the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and the rights of more than 8 million children with disabilities, The Arc Upper Valley proudly joined disability allies, advocates, parents, and educators from across the state and country for a grassroots virtual Town Hall on November 4, 2025.

Together, we discussed ways to use our collective voice to urge the Administration and Congress to support the more than 8 million children with disabilities and protect the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Watch the full Town Hall session to find out why this is important and what you can do to advocate for every child!

Learn more about the impact of the Department of Education layoffs:

Why Protecting IDEA and the U.S. Department of Education is Essential for Students with Disabilities

Frequently Asked Questions: What’s Happening at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) and What It Means for Students with Disabilities

Executive Action and the U.S. Department of Education—Its Role in IDEA and How Dismantling ED Harms Students with Disabilities

Federal Authority Over Education Laws and Funding—A Summary of the Executive Branch and Legislative Branch

This article was originally published in our newsletter, Inclusion Connection, on November 5, 2025.