October 15, 2025
Students with disabilities need your voice!
The U.S. Department of Education has laid off many people who work in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), including Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).
OSEP is the federal office that helps protect the rights of students with disabilities. It gives money, training, and guidance to states and schools so students can get the services they need under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Without enough staff, OSEP may not be able to:
- Monitor how states follow special education laws
- Give support and training to schools
- Respond quickly to problems that affect students and families
This means students with disabilities could lose important protections and services they depend
on.
Your voice matters. Take time to share your thoughts on special education rights today!
How to Take Action
Contact your U.S. Senators and Representatives today. Share your own experience.
Tell them what special education means to you — and how losing staff in the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) could affect you, your child, your students, or someone you know.
Email your U.S. Representative as soon as possible.
- Find your U.S. Representative HERE.
- Enter your zip code (and address if asked)
- Your U. S. Representative’s picture will show up on the left. Under the picture, click the mail icon to send your message.
Email both U.S. Senators as soon as possible.
- Senator Bill Cassidy → Email Form
- Senator John Kennedy → Email Form
Contact your LaCAN Leader if you need help with this alert or would like more information.
Click HERE if you would like to read a joint statement sent out by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD).
Confirm Your Action
- Email your LaCAN Leader after you take action
- Why confirm your action? This helps the Council know how effective we are reaching you with important information and engaging members across our state in advocacy for systems change.
Tips & Tools for Advocacy
Looking for tips and tools to help you in your advocacy? Check out the Council’s Advocacy 101
page. You can also find tips for:
Contact Us
LaCAN is an initiative of the LA Developmental Disabilities Council. If there are any questions about the information in this email, contact the Council by replying to this email, or calling the toll free number listed below:
Phone: 1-800-450-8108
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lacanadvocates.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LaDDCouncil
Twitter: www.twitter.com/LaDDCouncil