Debate Intensifies Over Future of Education Department Amid Political Tensions

A federal hearing on special education teacher shortages highlighted concerns over Donald Trump's proposal to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, which could significantly impact students with disabilities. While the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act would remain, the shift of responsibilities to other agencies like the Department of Health and Human Services or the Department of Justice raises questions about funding, enforcement, and teacher standards. Experts are divided on the potential effects, with some warning of reduced attention to students' needs and others seeing it as a political move with minimal impact.