The potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education is more than a political talking point—it’s a direct threat to the most vulnerable students in Colorado and across the country. With plans underway to shutter the department’s Office for Civil Rights, parents of children with disabilities, including those with autism, are sounding the alarm about what this will mean for access, equity, and protection in schools.
Already, half of the department’s staff is being placed on leave, and regional offices have been closed, including key operations in Cleveland and Chicago. The burden of handling tens of thousands of open investigations now falls disproportionately on remaining offices like Denver’s, which serves a region that has tripled in size overnight.
Civil Rights at Risk: Families Left Without Oversight
Parents like Sarah Collins, whose son is on the autism spectrum, are expressing serious concern over the elimination of oversight that once ensured fair treatment and accommodations in public education. For children who rely on special education services, school-based therapy, and structured support systems, the absence of federal protections could dismantle years of progress.
The Office for Civil Rights has historically been the go-to resource for investigating claims of discrimination, unequal treatment, inappropriate disciplinary action, and more. Without adequate staffing and funding, those investigations stall—or disappear entirely. Families are left without recourse. Districts are left without guidance.
In Colorado alone, more than 220 active civil rights cases could now be in limbo, putting real children at risk of losing their legally protected supports.
The Domino Effect on Children with Autism
What’s at stake isn’t just paperwork—it’s the day-to-day support structure that helps children with autism succeed in a school setting. These are services that regulate emotional well-being, foster communication skills, and prevent exclusion or isolation in classrooms. When those supports are removed or undermined, the impact on a child’s education, mental health, and long-term development can be devastating.
The proposed cuts affect more than legal protections. The DOE has historically provided critical training for families and school staff, ensuring children with disabilities receive the individualized accommodations they need. Without that structure, fewer professionals will understand how to support students with autism effectively.
Our Commitment to Continued Autism Support
At Spirit ABA, we understand how vital these protections and services are. That’s why we remain committed to providing reliable, evidence-based autism support in New York and beyond. In a time of uncertainty, families can depend on our team for personalized care and consistent guidance.
We don’t wait for policy changes to dictate the level of care our clients receive—we build programs based on what each child needs to thrive.
Contact Us Today
If you’re concerned about how these federal changes could impact your child’s services, contact us today. Let’s talk about your goals, the challenges you’re facing, and how our team can help provide stability and growth. We’re here to offer solutions that are rooted in compassion, professionalism, and real results—no matter what changes come from Washington.
