More Hopeful Futures or Children as Collateral Damage?

As debates continue about the future of the U.S. Department of Education (USED), we will host an insightful and engaging conversation about some of the key federal legislation and mandates that guide the work of USED and its efforts to support students often found on the wrong side of myriad opportunity and achievement gaps. Originally established in 1867 to collect data on schools and teaching and established by Congress as a cabinet-level agency in 1980, USED has since played a crucial role in delivering funding and supports to states and districts to help them narrow those longstanding gaps. This session will highlight landmark legislation, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which ensures services for students with disabilities, and Title III of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which provides support for English language learners. We’ll examine how this legislation and associated resources have strengthened and enhanced state and local education practices and helped educators better serve children. Most importantly, we’ll discuss how educators and stakeholders can leverage this knowledge to better support students, creating a more hopeful future for kids.