During the Trump administration, federal policy regarding the education of students with disabilities focused primarily on maintaining existing legislative frameworks rather than initiating significant new programs or reforms. Changes were largely budgetary, impacting funding allocations to states and local education agencies for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). For example, proposed budget cuts sometimes targeted grants that support teacher training and innovative programs designed to improve outcomes for students with special needs.
The continuation of IDEA’s core tenets ensured that eligible children with disabilities continued to receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The emphasis on state and local control allowed for variations in implementation and adaptation to specific community needs. Historically, federal involvement in special education has aimed to equalize opportunities for students who might otherwise be marginalized due to their disabilities. The benefits of these programs are improved academic achievement, increased independence, and greater integration into society for participating students.