IEP challenges under Trump have sparked concern as parents of children with disabilities report rising frustrations and setbacks. Cuts to federal education programs, teacher training, and critical research efforts have raised alarms about the future of special education in the U.S.
An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is guaranteed under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It supports nearly 7.5 million students across the country. But now, that support feels less certain.
The Trump administration has cut $900 million from education research contracts and over $600 million from teacher training programs. These cuts disproportionately affect families relying on IEPs. Even though President Trump promises that IDEA protections will remain intact under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, experts argue that dismantling the Education Department creates confusion and weakens enforcement.
Experts warn these cuts create new challenges for families, including:
- Increased delays in services due to staff shortages
- Fewer trained special education teachers
- Reduced access to evidence-based interventions
- Greater confusion over IEP rights and enforcement
“The most important part of the IEP is the individualized part,” said Carrie Gillispie, a senior policy analyst at New America. “Without research, it’s harder to know what interventions actually work.”
Many families are now forced to turn to private residential schools. For example, Katie Prather’s son, who is on the autism spectrum, struggled in traditional schools. After years of IEPs that didn’t match his needs, he found success at Hanna Academy, a state-funded private school for students with disabilities.
“The smaller setting and no homework was a game-changer,” Prather said. But even this option is at risk if federal support dwindles.
Special education advocates say cutting the Education Department doesn’t just complicate bureaucracy — it directly impacts students.
“These parents have kids who’ve been kicked out of every school,” said Hanna Academy principal Courtney Jackson. “They’re just looking for resources that work.”
While Congress has the final say on dismantling federal departments, the proposed changes already bring uncertainty to families and schools.
For now, advocates urge parents to stay informed, fight for transparency, and continue to push for policies that protect every student’s right to an education.
Source: USA Today
