Senator Pugh Reaffirms Oklahoma’s Commitment to Students with Disabilities Amid Federal Staffing Cuts

OKLAHOMA CITY – Senator Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, today released the following information and statement after the U.S. Department of Education’s decision to reduce staff within the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), specifically on the impact on states and local school districts that rely on federal guidance and oversight to serve students with disabilities.

Earlier this month, Oklahoma received $181 million in federal funding through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to support special education services across the state. Under federal law, states oversee how these funds are distributed and used to strengthen classroom resources for students with disabilities.

Senator Pugh said the federal government’s contribution only covers 14-to-15% of special education costs.

“We have known for months that wholesale changes were coming to the U.S. Department of Education,” Senator Pugh said. “Through my work with the Senate Education Committee, and constant communication with both the state and U.S. Department of Education, Oklahoma is in a position to ensure every child, regardless of circumstance, has access to the quality education they need to be successful. Oklahoma will continue to do everything possible to ensure IDEA funds are used responsibly, effectively and in ways that directly benefit students and teachers. Oklahoma remains committed to students with special needs. Even as federal resources fluctuate, our focus will stay on setting these children up for success. We’ll continue to work with our schools, parents and communities to ensure that never wavers.”

IDEA funding supplements general education dollars. School districts are required to first use their general funds to meet educational obligations, while IDEA funds may only be used for the “above and beyond” costs of serving students with disabilities, such as paraprofessionals, specialized classroom aides, supplies and related services.

How Oklahoma uses IDEA funds:

• $3.5 million supports 34 full-time staff at the Oklahoma State Department of Education’s Office of Special Education.
• $19 million supports statewide activities and partnerships that strengthen local special education programs.
• The remaining funds are distributed directly to school districts based on population and the number of students with disabilities.

Moving Forward

Senator Pugh plans to file legislation for the upcoming legislative session to codify the state’s commitment to IDEA funding and the dispute resolution process surrounding children with special needs.

The legislation will offer families a way to raise concerns without needing to hire an attorney. The process empowers parents and guardians to resolve issues at the state level, making special education more accessible for those who need it.

“Special education funding is a promise the state needs to make to children and families who need it,” Senator Pugh said. “When we protect IDEA funding, we protect opportunities and the rights of every child so they can learn and reach their full potential.”

###