KSNV: Susie Lee, advocates voice concerns regarding dismantling of education department

LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Congresswoman Susie Lee, along with parents of children with disabilities, educators, and advocates, gathered at Wayne N. Tanaka Elementary School on Saturday.

They voiced their concerns over a new executive order from the current administration and Secretary of Education.

The order aims to dismantle the Department of Education, a move that could jeopardize special education programs.

Congresswoman Lee says, "This is an important time to talk about public education and how important it is to our future."

She says by dismantling The Department of Education, "The purpose is to take away from programs that help our most disadvantaged and struggling students."

According to Lee, that money would benefit the wealthy and big corporations with tax breaks and this could result in teacher layoffs and certain programs could be cut.

"You can't cut $300 billion without cutting aid that's coming into our state," Lee says.

The Department of Education plays a crucial role in providing resources for students with disabilities and ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Last year, Nevada received $97.2 million in federal funding for special education, impacting nearly 70,000 students, including over 40,000 in Clark County.

The gathering aims to highlight the potential risks posed by the executive order and to advocate for the continued support and funding of special education programs.