Department of Education Policy Changes | Advocacy in the face of Adversity | Annie's Creative Counseling

Last week's news of the recasting of the Department of Education has sent waves of uncertainty through our community.

This shift means that for many children—especially those with disabilities, marginalized backgrounds, and limited resources—the dream of equitable education may seem further out of reach.

I want to pause and acknowledge the fear and concern that this may raise. It’s unsettling, I know. This change feels big, and it’s okay to feel uneasy about it.

But now is not the time to panic or shrink away.

It's time to stand tall.

Though policies, language, and systems may change, one truth remains: the needs of our children are not going anywhere. Our commitment to supporting children has never been more important.

So, how do we adapt to the changes made by the Department of Education and continue supporting our children, especially when we feel like the ground beneath us is shifting?

1. Stay Informed: Research and Understand Policy Changes

As unsettling as it may be, it’s important to stay informed about the policy changes occurring in your state and your child’s school district. Understand how these changes might directly affect your child’s educational experience from school lunches to IEPs and 504s. Take the time to research how the removal of the Department of Education, or other policy changes, will impact the resources available to your child. What current education resources does your child and how will they be impacted by the changes? By staying informed, you empower yourself to make better decisions for your child’s future.

2. Build Relationships and Strengthen Your Support Network

One of the most important ways to adapt to these uncertain times is by building strong relationships and creating a support network. It’s easy to feel isolated when facing challenges, but you don’t have to do this alone. Whether it’s connecting with other parents through Facebook groups, joining your school’s PTA, or subscribing to our blog, staying connected with others can help ease the emotional load. Being part of a community gives you access to shared resources, experiences, and advice that can help you navigate the changes ahead.

3. Reframe Challenges: Advocate and Adapt

Parenthood brings lots of challenges and maybe you had everything planned out but quickly realized that you need a flexible mindset. Instead of focusing on the barriers and feeling defeated, try to reframe these challenges as opportunities to advocate and adapt. It’s easy to think, “This won’t work,” but instead, ask yourself, “How can we make this work?” This shift in perspective can make a huge difference in how you approach these changes and how you advocate for your child’s needs.

Advocating for your child means looking at the education system as a whole and seeking out alternative options. Whether that’s requesting additional accommodations, exploring alternative education methods, or finding new ways to support your child’s mental health, there are always ways to advocate. Remember that while systems may change, your child’s needs deserve to be met and your child is counting on you to make that happen.

At Annie’s Creative Counseling, we strive to be the steadfast community you and your children can rely on—a place where you can feel safe, supported, and understood. In times of change, it’s essential to remember that our commitment to helping children thrive remains unwavering.

We will continue offering valuable resources and strategies to help you continue supporting your child during this period of change.

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You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—we’re in this together.

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