Sequestration -- the 8.2% automatic, across-the-board-cut
to most federally funded programs – is the newest buzz word in policy
circles. Last Friday, the White House
budget office released a report
detailing the impact sequestration would
have on federal programs.
To cut to the chase, education programs would be cut by $4.1 Billion. Estimates have stated that nearly $1 Billion would be cut from special education programs for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school aged students, in addition to special education research and IDEA’s support programs (i.e. parent training and information centers, grants to support preparation and professional development).
The report states that students with disabilities would suffer as a result of sequestration. CEC couldn’t agree more.
Earlier this year, CEC reported on a survey it conducted with its division, the Council for Special Education Administrators which confirmed what so many of us know or suspected: special educators are losing jobs, services for children with disabilities are strained, and access to professional development is dwindling.
The deep cuts of sequestration will take place on January 1, 2013 if Congress doesn’t act and came as a result of the failed budget negotiations last year.
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