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We have learned yesterday afternoon that the bill Senator Collins sponsored to continue funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) not include Part D of IDEA.
Why This Matters Part D of IDEA includes personnel development, technical assistant, parent training and information centers (like Maine Parent Federation), information dissemination, and technology. Without this funding these services may not exist for the state of Maine. What Does This Mean for MPF If not included in this bill our parent center funding would most likely cease to exist and jeopardize our ability to remain fully operational and committed to the families and communities, we serve. In partnership with disability organizations across Maine and within our National Coalitions MPF is committed to asking Senator Collins to please add Part D of IDEA to the language in the bill. What Can You Do Our turnaround time for this request is very tight as it appears the bill may be in the House of Representatives tomorrow, Sunday January 18th. If you are able and willing today, Saturday January 18th, please consider sending the following email to Senator Collins' Education and Appropriation staffer Mark LeDuc. Email Template Dear Mr. LeDuc, My name is "enter name" and I am a "write how you would like to be identified i.e. parent of a child with a disability etc...". I am contacting you today to request that Senator Collins add IDEA Part D to Section 314 of the Labor H Education bill to continue funding for Parent Centers, University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), technical assistance to the OSEP grantees in our state, and professional development for our special educators. All of these services are crucial for students with disabilities in Maine to access their education and increase positive outcomes. Thank you for your time and consideration. "Your name and contact information" Senator Collins Staffer Senator Susan Collins - Chair of the Appropriations Committee Education & Appropriations Staffer - Mark LeDuc - [email protected] Website Maine Parent Federation understands we have asked a lot of our constituents over the last year. Unfortunately, right now the attack on services for children with disabilities continues and we truly appreciate your advocacy and voice to assist us during what remains an extremely challenging time. I remain available to all of you to assist with your questions and concerns. Thoughtfully with you, Carrie Woodcock, Executive Director and The Staff of Maine Parent Federation |
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