CNY Central

President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday aimed at dismantling the federal Department of Education, sparking a legislative response from Congressman John Mannion. Mannion introduced a bill to strengthen the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, a law enacted 50 years ago to protect students with disabilities. Mannion, representing New York’s 22nd District, said, “Enshrined into law, there must be special education services. The Office of Special Education must be within that department.” He added that moving these services to another department would violate the act and questioned whether another department could provide the necessary expertise and attention. Nicole Capsello, president of the Syracuse Teachers Association and a former special education teacher, expressed concern over the potential impact of Trump’s order.