President Trump recently signed an executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin shrinking the agency. While only Congress can fully eliminate the department, significant cuts are already underway.
For families of children with disabilities, this news raises serious concerns. The Department plays a key role in funding and enforcing special education protections, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Understandably, many parents are asking: Will my child’s services change? Is their IEP still safe?
What Role Does the Department of Education Play in IEPs and 504 Plans?
The U.S. Department of Education doesn’t create or manage your child’s IEP or 504 plan directly—but it plays a key role in making those supports possible. Through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Department provides funding to states and school districts to help cover the cost of special education services.
IDEA is the law that gives eligible students the right to an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which outlines services like speech therapy, accommodations, and specialized instruction. The Department also helps enforce Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a civil rights law that protects students from discrimination and supports accommodations through 504 plans.
While your child’s plan is created locally, the Department ensures that schools follow federal laws and provides critical funding to keep those services running.
What’s Changing—And What’s Not
Right now, the laws that protect students with disabilities—like IDEA and Section 504—have not changed. Your child’s right to receive special education services remains unchanged, and the funding levels established by Congress remain in effect.
However, the Department of Education is already shrinking. Staff has been cut by half, including major reductions at the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which investigates complaints of discrimination in schools.
Some field offices are being closed, which could slow down enforcement and make it harder for families to get help when schools fail to meet their legal obligations. While President Trump stated that special education programs may be transferred to the Department of Health and Human Services, this transfer hasn’t yet officially occurred, and no detailed plan has been released.
The bottom line is that IEPs and 504 plans are still required by law, but the systems that support and enforce them could be weakened.
What Parents Can Do Right Now
For now, your child’s IEP or 504 plan remains fully in effect. Schools are still legally required to provide the services and support outlined in those plans, and the process for requesting or updating them has not changed.
If you’re in the middle of seeking services, continue working with your school team. Keep copies of your communications and meeting notes, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification. If you face delays or problems, contact your state’s Department of Education or a local advocacy group for guidance.
Most importantly, remember that the legal rights under IDEA and Section 504 remain in place. Staying informed, involved, and proactive is the best way to protect your child’s education.
