Full Breakdown
Federal Funding Cuts Impact Programs for Students with Disabilities
9/14/2025, 9:24:25 PM
Overview of Funding Cuts
The U.S. Department of Education has terminated nearly $11 million in federal grants that supported programs for children with disabilities, particularly those with vision and hearing loss. This decision affects multiple states, including Wisconsin and Oregon, and has raised significant concerns among educators and families about the implications for vulnerable student populations.
Impact on Wisconsin Programs
In Wisconsin, the funding cuts specifically target two grant programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part D. The Wisconsin Deafblind Technical Assistance Project, which serves 170 students with vision and hearing loss, will lose approximately $550,000 intended to last through September 2028. Wisconsin Superintendent Jill Underly emphasized that losing these funds will severely hinder the state's ability to provide essential support for deafblind learners and recruit special education teachers. The second program affected is the State Personnel Development Grant, which has been crucial in addressing the state's special education teacher shortage.
Consequences in Oregon
Similarly, in Oregon, the Oregon DeafBlind Project, which serves over 100 students, is facing the elimination of its federal grant funding. Families, such as that of 12-year-old Natalie Pierce, are concerned about the loss of vital support services. The Central Oregon Disability Support Network (CODSN), which assists over 4,000 families, is also losing about $150,000 in funding. Executive Director Dianna Hansen noted that the cuts would significantly impact rural families already facing limited resources.
Official Statements & Responses
The U.S. Department of Education cited that the terminated programs reflected the priorities of the previous administration and conflicted with current policy preferences. In response, Wisconsin's Department of Public Instruction plans to appeal the decision, while Oregon lawmakers, including Rep. Bynum and Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, have urged the department to restore funding.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that these funding cuts undermine the rights of students with disabilities to receive appropriate educational support. Superintendent Underly described the decision as "unconscionable," while Hansen from CODSN expressed shock at the use of application language related to diversity, equity, and inclusion against them. Families and advocates are concerned that the cuts will exacerbate existing disparities in educational access for students with disabilities.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Department of Education has not provided detailed explanations for the funding cuts, the decision has been linked to a shift in policy priorities. The lack of communication from the department regarding the rationale for the cuts has left many stakeholders seeking clarity on the future of these essential programs.
What's Next
As affected states prepare to appeal the funding cuts, advocacy groups are mobilizing to ensure that families are aware of their rights and available resources. The outcome of these appeals could significantly influence the support systems in place for students with disabilities across the affected states.
