U.S. Commission on Civil Rights Releases Report: The Federal Response to Teacher Shortage Impacts on Students with Disabilities

Washington D.C. -- Today, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights releases its report entitled, “The Federal Response to Teacher Shortage Impacts on Students with Disabilities.”

The Commission began this investigation to better understand how the national teacher shortage is affecting students with disabilities and to examine how the federal government, especially the U.S. Department of Education, has responded to this challenge.

This work builds on reports from the Commission’s Advisory Committees, which are active in every state, Washington D.C., and the U.S. territories. In January 2023, the Arkansas Advisory Committee released a report examining the state’s compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). In January 2024, the Nevada Advisory Committee published a report on unfair learning conditions stemming from teacher and staff shortages. Lastly, in December 2024, the D.C. Advisory Committee released a report regarding access to special education and transportation services in D.C. for students with disabilities.

As part of the examination, the Commission held a public briefing in November 2024 in Washington, D.C. where educators, advocates, and people directly impacted by these issues shared their stories and recommendations. Then, in December, the Commission hosted a virtual listening session so parents, students, and teachers from across the country could speak about how these shortages have affected them.

“Under President Trump and Secretary McMahon's leadership we are seeing a renewed commitment to empowering families—giving parents greater educational choice and influence at the state and local levels to ensure all children receive the education they deserve. Every child, regardless of ability, must be guaranteed access to a quality education and we must act with urgency to uphold these promises.  As we confront the challenges of teacher shortages, especially for students with disabilities, we remain committed to ensuring federal protections for our disabled students remains a priority. Together, we can build a future where students, and families are prioritized over antiquated and failed systems.” – Commissioner Stephen Gilchrist