Cord Byrd: “I recognize that the issue of educating children with disabilities is complex. There are many factors to take into…”

“I recognize that the issue of educating children with disabilities is complex. There are many factors to take into consideration as we try to determine the best possible policy to make sure that all children receive a quality education. I have no doubt that this amendment is intended to improve the educational opportunities for disabled students, but I have concerns that the amendment fails to provide protections to make sure that parents of children with disabilities are not pressured into removing their children from public schools. If a system of protections were included, I would likely support this amendment. Further, this bill is not the appropriate place to resolve this complicated issue. In view of the fact that this Congress will reauthorize the bill that guarantees an education to children with disabilities, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, IDEA, I believe Congress should wait for that opportunity to make significant changes in policy concerning educating disabled children. That will allow us to fully debate these important issues, examine the alternatives, and come to a clearer understanding of how to best educate disabled children in this country. I am voting against this amendment today, but I look forward to revisiting this issue during the reauthorization of the IDEA.”