The Cost of the Federal Retreat in Special Education

In this episode of amplifiED, Margaret and Josh sit down with journalist Beth Hawkins of The 74 Million to explore her recent investigation into the shifting landscape of special education and what families may face as federal oversight is removed. Beth walks through why the federal government has historically been a key safeguard for students with disabilities, how recent staffing cuts and office closures inside the U.S. Department of Education are disrupting that role, and what this means for parents seeking support.

The conversation covers what happens when complaints stall, why the process varies so widely from state to state, and how some families navigate these systems more easily than others. Margaret and Josh also dig into the larger implications for Minnesota, including what advocates and lawmakers should take action on right now.

It’s a timely look at the challenges and the necessary next steps for protecting students’ rights in a changing system.