DEVELOPING: Federal Special Ed Staff to Regain Jobs, But Temporary Reprieve Looms

Breaking News: Federal Special Ed Staff to Regain Jobs, But Temporary Reprieve Looms Federal special education staff who were fired in October are set to regain their jobs, according to a deal reached by Congress to re-open the federal government. The Trump administration is required to reinstate the workers, including those overseeing the nation's special education laws. This decision comes into effect as of September 30. The immediate impact is significant, as the Office for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) is now expected to have 121 of its 135 employees back on board. This office is crucial for programs supporting students with disabilities and oversees state compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Background context shows that the OSERS was severely impacted by the October reduction-in-force, which left the office severely understaffed. The office's central role in guiding families and overseeing state compliance makes its staffing a critical issue. The current status of these workers is that they will be reinstated to "employment status" as of September 30, but it remains unclear how long they will remain in their positions. The Education Department has filed a statement indicating the office's staffing levels, but further details on the duration of their reinstatement are not available. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.