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.
COPAA and fellow advocacy groups file an amicus brief with Ninth Circuit urging affirmance of lower court’s correct ruling on IDEA statute of limitations
COPAA, along with the California Association for Parent-Child Advocacy and Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, filed an amicus brief last week with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in J.R. v. Ventura Unified School District. COPAA and its...
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