The Autism Society of America is deeply concerned by the recent announcement that the United States Department of Education will be laying off half of its workforce. This decision has serious implications for the education system, particularly for students with Autism and other disabilities who rely on vital resources, services, and protections to ensure they receive a fair and equitable education. 

The Autism Society recognizes the critical role the Department of Education plays in overseeing and enforcing policies that support inclusive educational opportunities. Reducing staff at a time when schools and educators are already struggling to meet the diverse needs of all students, especially those with disabilities, is concerning. These cuts risk further widening the gap in access to essential services, such as support staff, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, for students to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. With reports of multiple Regional Offices of Civil Rights being completely closed, there is significant worry that families will not have the oversight to ensure their loved ones are being given their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.   

Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America, emphasized “We must recognize that students with disabilities, such as Autism, deserve the same opportunities to succeed as their peers, and that specialized educational support is not a luxury, but a right. Removing a centralized department that advocates for their needs undermines progress and reverses hard-won victories for accessibility, equity, and inclusion in our educational system.” 

The Autism Society of America is committed to ensuring that individuals with Autism are not left behind. We urge policymakers to prioritize the needs of all students, and especially students with disabilities, and to find meaningful solutions that improve the quality, accessibility, and equitable access to our education system. The future of countless students is at stake, and it is essential that we continue to advocate for an educational structure that fosters inclusion, respect, and opportunity for all children, regardless of ability. 

Cathy Pratt, member of the Autism Society’s Panel for Professional Advisors, and recently retired Director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, stated “Parents and caregivers have fought tirelessly for the rights of their loved ones, and we cannot afford to see that progress undone. The reduction in the Department of Education threatens vital protections and services for students with disabilities, including those with Autism. Without this oversight, we risk undoing decades of progress in inclusive education, leaving students vulnerable to inequitable access and diminished opportunities. Every student deserves the right to a quality education, and we must uphold that promise.” 

The Autism Society urges all advocates to take immediate action to demand that Congress protect the rights of students with disabilities and ensure continued access to inclusive education. 

To learn more about how important the Department of Education is for students with disabilities, access this resource from the National Down Syndrome Congress.