Following the recent elections, state associations, under NAPSEC's guidance, have been actively discussing the potential impacts of shifting federal policies on special education. These ongoing meetings focus on understanding how changes in legislation might affect the education and support of students with disabilities, particularly in relation to the long-standing funding gap in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This gap has put a significant financial strain on states and local school districts.
Understanding the IDEA Funding Gap
IDEA, enacted in 1975, mandates that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). The law assumes that educating students with disabilities is, on average, twice as costly as educating other students. Congress pledged to fund 40% of the additional cost, but the federal government has consistently contributed less than half of this amount. As a result, states and districts are forced to cover the shortfall, straining already limited resources.
Rising Enrollment and the Need for Funding
The demand for special education services continues to grow. In the 2022–23 school year, nearly 7.5 million students (15% of all public-school students) received special education services under IDEA, a 3% increase from 2019–20. This trend reflects the increasing recognition of students' diverse needs. Despite a general decline in public-school enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of students receiving IDEA services actually rose, further intensifying the financial challenges.
California is experiencing the same trend as the federal data, seeing steady increases in the number of students receiving special education and related services.
The Need for Action
As enrollment in special education grows, the financial burden on local districts increases. The federal government's failure to fully fund IDEA means that states and districts are left to cover a growing share of the costs. Addressing the IDEA funding gap remains a top priority for NAPSEC and state associations, as federal lawmakers must fulfill their commitment to fully fund IDEA. A sustainable, equitable funding model is essential to ensure all students, regardless of disability, have access to the education they deserve.
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