1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

As a teacher for students with hearing loss, I witness firsthand the profound positive impact that reasonable accommodations and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) have on my students' ability to access education equitably. Dismantling the Department of Education would severely undermine these vital protections, depriving millions of students with disabilities, including my own, from the specialized assistance they require to succeed academically and developmentally. Maintaining this department is crucial to upholding our nation's commitment to inclusive and equitable education for all learners, regardless of their abilities or challenges. We cannot compromise the educational opportunities and futures of our most vulnerable students.