As a constituent and concerned member of the Learning Disabilities Association of America I urge you to reject any provision that would provide waiver authority to the Secretary of Education regarding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Over 7 million children, including more than 2 million with specific learning disabilities, rely on IDEA to receive necessary special education supports and services.

The COVID-19 outbreak has placed a tremendous and unprecedented strain on schools and districts, and I understand the challenges and need for flexibility; however, it is imperative that we find solutions that do not put our children’s education at risk by undoing all of their civil and educational rights. We must protect our most vulnerable, especially now.

Additionally, I ask that you help schools by providing states with increased funding for teachers, school leaders, and families so that they have the tools needed to teach and support students during this time. States should also be supported with funding to allow for an extended school year and other supplemental programs and services if necessary.

Please support students with learning disabilities and their families who rely upon IDEA to have equitable access to free and appropriate education.

I am a constituent, a concerned (parent/teacher/child advocate) and a member of the Learning Disabilities Association of America. I'm calling to urge you to reject any provision that would provide waiver authority to the Secretary of Education regarding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Over 7 million children, including more than 2 million with specific learning disabilities, rely on IDEA to receive necessary special education supports and services.

The COVID-19 outbreak has placed a tremendous and unprecedented strain on schools and districts, and I understand the challenges and need for flexibility; however, it is imperative that we find solutions that do not put our children’s education at risk by undoing all of their civil and educational rights. We must protect our most vulnerable, especially now.

Additionally, I ask that you help schools by providing states with additional funding for teachers, school leaders, and families so that they have the tools needed to teach and support students during this time. Schools can also be supported with funding to provide an extended school year to students and other supplemental programs and services.

Please support students with learning disabilities and their families that rely upon IDEA to have equitable access to free and appropriate education.