The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) serves a global student population, with about 15% receiving special education services. A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) review found serious challenges in overseas schools, including limited access to related services like physical therapy, causing delays at 44 of 114 schools in 2022–2023—some delays lasting over a year. DoDEA’s staffing model does not account for the individualized minutes of service required by students’ individualized education plans (IEPs), contributing to shortages. Additionally, paraeducators at most schools reported little to no special education training, including any required crisis response preparation. Staff and regional officials also cited unclear guidance on implementing Department of Defense policies, leading to inconsistent support across schools. While updates are planned by 2025–2026, clearer interim communication is needed. These findings highlight the need for better training, staffing, and policy clarity to ensure military-connected students with disabilities receive consistent, high-quality support. DoD only partially agreed with the GAO findings.
Federal Judge Blocks the Dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education
On May 22, 2025, the plaintiffs in the federal case New York v. McMahon won an important preliminary victory, in which the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granted a preliminary injunction that blocks the sweeping changes recently ordered by...
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