The U.S. Department of Education makes sure federal education laws are followed. It allocates funds to help schools provide special education programs. And it ensures that schools follow rules that protect students’ rights and give all students a fair chance at learning.

Find out how federal funding supports special education programs. And learn what to do if your child’s school isn’t providing support.

Related resources

Timestamps

(00:53) What the department does not do for special education

(2:47) How the department oversees special education

(06:23) How the department protects students’ rights

For a transcript and more resources, visit the Opportunity Gap page on Understood.org.

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What you need to know about federal funding for special education