Hyperfocus with Rae Jacobson The uncertain future of special education in the United States
Nov 6, 2025
Meghan Whittaker, former chief of staff at the U.S. Department of Education, and Julian Saavedra, an assistant principal in Philadelphia, dive into the chaos surrounding recent layoffs in special education. They discuss the impact on students and families, the risks to IEP services, and the need for parental advocacy. The guests also analyze the implications of school vouchers and the challenges of federal oversight versus local school budgeting. Their insights shed light on a critical moment for special education in the U.S.
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OSEP Is The Federal Backstop
- The Office of Special Education Programs enforces IDEA and provides funding and regulatory leadership nationwide.
- Eliminating OSEP removes federal guidance and weakens enforcement that ensures states meet obligations to students.
Money Flows But Oversight Disappears
- Federal funds like IDEA and Medicaid are a small share of education budgets but still total billions and target vulnerable students.
- Staff cuts may not stop grants but will sharply reduce oversight of how those dollars are spent.
IEP Meeting Where Parents Asked 'What If?'
- Julian described a senior student's IEP meeting where the parent asked what would happen if transition programs disappear.
- He admitted uncertainty and offered nonprofit referrals while the parent expressed clear fear.