The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) proudly aligns with Access Living, The ARC of Illinois, and the American Association of People with Disabilities to protect the rights of people with disabilities.
One of the most important laws for students with disabilities is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This federal law ensures that children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education that meets their unique needs. It also funds early intervention services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays and provides grants to improve educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
However, recent federal actions including an Executive Order affecting the Department of Education could impact how these programs are administered.
The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights plays a crucial role in enforcing laws that protect students with disabilities, such as Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. These programs help students receive accommodations and support in school.
Additionally, many college students with disabilities depend on federal financial aid, grants, and vocational rehabilitation services to access higher education.
Right now, the future of these critical programs is uncertain.
ISBA urges our community to stay informed, ask questions, and reach out to their elected officials to advocate for the protections and services that support students with disabilities.
As members of the disability community, our voices matter. ISBA is collecting stories from individuals and families about how the Department of Education, an IEP, or a 504 plan has helped them or their child. These personal experiences will be used to build a powerful advocacy campaign to make sure our voices are heard.
Our campaign will be shared with our advocacy coalition, on social media, and with members of the Illinois General Assembly and the Illinois Congressional delegation. If you are interested in sharing your story, please contact Becky Ziegler Rupnick, ISBA Board Chair and Chair of the Legislative Advocacy Committee, at zieglerbecky@yahoo.com.
Everyone has a voice, and we must use it; even when it shakes.