National Advocacy Efforts for DoE/IDEA
Templates for writing your reps, updates, etc.
Playing Catch up?
A breakdown of why the Department of Education is important to supporting deaf/disabled students: (in ASL, with CC and transcript)
A breakdown of what to do about it right this second: (in ASL with CC and transcript)
Curious about other stuff in Project 2025? Gallaudet and NTID’s funding, FCC reorg, OSERS closure are all mentioned, alongside other plans that could harm deaf/disabled folks. ASL explainers here.
Template for writing your Congressperson or Senator
***Note: This template is a general ask for the maintenance of the Department of Education, and can be used for a House rep or Senator. If you are writing a House rep and want to ask specifically for their support of IDEA funding, you can tweak the template to ask for their support of the following bill in Congress: IDEA Full Funding Act, S.2217***
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Email Address]
[Date]
United States Congress
[Name of the Representative/Senator]
[Office Address]
[Washington, D.C., Zip Code]
Dear [Title and Name of Representative/Senator],
I am writing to urge you to support keeping the U.S. Department of Education open and fully funded. My name is [Your Name], and I am [describe your connection to education, such as “a parent of a child with a disability,” “an educator,” “an advocate for students with special needs”].
I am passionate about ensuring that all students, especially those from underserved communities and those with disabilities, have equitable access to quality education.
In my experience, [briefly share a personal experience or observation related to the Department of Education, IDEA, or Title I funding; for example, “I have seen firsthand how IDEA has supported my child in receiving an appropriate education,” or “Title I funding has been essential in providing resources for my school”]. This federal support is vital, as it helps address disparities in educational opportunities and provides protections that might otherwise be unavailable.
The U.S. Department of Education plays a critical role in administering programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Title I funding. IDEA ensures that children with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), a right that has changed countless lives by providing inclusive and supportive learning environments. Title I funding helps bridge the resource gap in low-income schools, supporting students who might otherwise lack access to essential educational resources. Without the Department’s oversight, millions of students could lose these protections and resources.
I respectfully request that you support the U.S. Department of Education and oppose any efforts that would reduce its function or authority. Keeping the Department open is essential to upholding educational equity and ensuring that all students, regardless of background or ability, have the chance to succeed.
Thank you for considering my views on this critical issue. Please feel free to reach out if you would like further insight into my experiences or perspectives.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]
How do I find my Representatives?
Right here, by Zip Code! https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
Are there reasons to care about the Department of Education besides disabled kids?
Yep! Some examples:
Discrimination protections for other protected classes (ex: race, gender, etc.
Title 1 and other program funding for under resourced schools.
Early intervention program funding
Funding for teacher training
Curriculum standards accountability
Funding for research, data aggregating and sharing at the national level
$$ Fast Facts
Funding schools currently receive is already not enough, but without it the results could be catastrophic.
Title 1 Schools typically receive $1,100-3000 per student from federal government funding.
Schools receive between 20-40% of IDEA related funding from the federal government. This is why the IDEA Full Funding Act 2217 is so important regardless of DoE status.
What if I want to write my own letter?
Go for it! Here are some tips:
How to Write to a Member of Congress:
This guide was created using information from the American Institute of Physics’ resource on writing to a member of Congress, available at aip.org.
Timing: Timing is crucial. Letters sent when the issue is under active consideration are the most effective. Sending it after a decision has been made or too far in advance may reduce its impact.
Preferred Method of Contact: Email is recommended. This is the fastest and most reliable way to reach your member of Congress. Avoid sending letters by fax.
Letter Length and Clarity: Keep it to one page and focus on one specific issue. Avoid using technical or scientific jargon to ensure clarity.
Letter Structure:
1. First Paragraph – Introduction: State your reason for writing and briefly describe your connection to the issue (e.g., “I am a parent of a child with disabilities,” or “I am an educator”). Mention any relevant credentials, but ensure your views are noted as personal unless authorized to represent an organization.
2. Second Paragraph – Importance of the Issue: Describe why this issue matters on a national level. Include facts and relevant information about the broader impact rather than focusing solely on personal perspectives.
3. Third Paragraph – Request and Conclusion: Politely request specific action (do not demand). For example, “I respectfully ask you to support maintaining the U.S. Department of Education’s current authority.”
Thank the member for considering your views, and offer assistance if needed.
Correct Address Styles: When addressing your letter to Congress, use one of the following formats at the top left of your document.
For a Senator
The Honorable [Full Name]
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Dear Senator [Last Name],
For a Representative
The Honorable [Full Name]
United States House of Representatives
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Representative [Last Name],
Additional Guidance
Cite a Specific Bill (if applicable): If your letter is about a particular bill, include its number and title. (Ex: IDEA Full Funding Act # S.2217)
Include Contact Information: Make sure your letter includes your name, address, email, and phone number so your representative can respond.
For more information on writing to a member of Congress, visit the American Institute of Physics at aip.org.
The writing guidelines in this section, and the letter template were created by Fighting for My Voice LLC to empower advocates in effectively communicating with Congress on issues impacting education and disability rights. Thank you for using your voice to support our community! Subscribe to Jordan’s Advocacy Letter for real-time updates and find him on IG.