Special education services have always posed a funding challenge. In Idaho and across the country, schools must provide services to help students of all abilities meet their potential. But often, the state doesn't provide cities and local schools with enough funding to help all the students in need. Once upon a time, the federal government promised to fund 40% of each state's special education needs. But that government funding has remained mostly a fairy tale, and, unfortunately, many states can't make up the difference.

As a result of funding shortfalls, families can often face many challenges when trying to obtain the services their special education students need from the schools. You still have options if your child's school denies your student needed services because of budget issues. The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help your family obtain needed services. Call them at 888-535-3686 to schedule your consultation.

Special Education Funding Shortfalls

Funding shortfalls for special education are happening across the country, but it's reached a critical point in Idaho. According to Ryan Cantrell, an educator and the chief deputy superintendent at the Idaho Department of Education, Idaho is facing a funding shortfall of nearly $67 million. He told Idaho Education News, “For as long as I've been teaching and I've been in education, there has been a discrepancy between what a district spends to educate the students requiring special education services and what they're actually reimbursed.” The $67 million gap means that Idaho schools don't have funding to help 7,760 special education students each year.

When a special education student enters an Idaho school district, the school district must provide the services needed to obtain a free and appropriate public education. Under federal and state law, the school can't simply say, “Sorry, we don't have the money.” Moreover, states must fund special education first before applying for federal funds.

Funding Under IDEA

As part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), schools must maintain their current funding for special education from year to year. The state's funding can go up, but it can never go down. When Congress passed the law in 1975, it promised to provide 40% of the funds to implement it. But funding has remained at only 18 to 20% in the 48 years since the statute's passage. Even with Medicaid reimbursements, Idaho faces a significant funding gap, leading to staffing challenges and a big budget crunch.

While the state may be facing a funding shortfall, it's important to remember that your child is still entitled to the services they need. Schools may insist that your student doesn't need a recommended service to keep costs down. But you don't have to just give up on the help your child needs.

You Need the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm

If you're the parent of an Idaho special education student, your child is entitled to receive the education they deserve. If you're facing roadblocks from your child's school, you don't have to take it lying down. The Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm has helped many families just like yours across the country. They can help fight for the services and assistance the law guarantees your child. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 to schedule your consultation today or submit your case online.