News

Special education services in Washington to remain intact amid federal layoffs

Photo: Metro Services


OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The state’s special education services will remain intact amid federal layoffs at the Department of Education.

The White House announced earlier this week that it’s firing 466 workers at the department, including most of the remaining staff in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.

Those firings are on hold after a federal judge blocked the Trump administration’s mass layoffs during the government shutdown.

Meanwhile, Washington State Superintendent Christ Reykdal said in a statement Monday that his office hasn’t received any indication that any federal funds are at risk for local school districts.

Washington school districts receive $275 million in annual funding from the department to support its special education services.

Reykdal says those funds are still available but warns they could be at risk. He’s urging Congress to step in before any critical programs are cut. 

Recent Headlines

3 days ago in Sports

Indiana announces new 8-year contract with coach Curt Cignetti worth nearly $93 million

Curt Cignetti's new deal shows Indiana isn't content with being known as just a basketball school. Indiana announced a new eight-year contract with its football coach worth at least $92.8 million on Thursday, rewarding him for pushing the Hoosiers into national championship contention in just two seasons.

4 days ago in Local Sports, Northwest Sports, Professional, Sports

Blue Jays hit 5 HRs, cut Mariners’ ALCS lead to 2-1

Seattle RHP Luis Castillo starts Game 4 Thursday against RHP Max Scherzer.

4 days ago in Sports

Russell Westbrook is joining the Sacramento Kings for his 18th NBA season, AP source says

Former MVP Russell Westbrook is joining the Sacramento Kings, a person familiar with the agreement told The Associated Press on Wednesday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team hasn't announced the deal.

5 days ago in Sports

Yamamoto throws 3-hitter as Dodgers beat Brewers 5-1 for 2-0 lead in NLCS

Relying on an old-school pitching strategy has the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers two wins from returning to the Fall Classic.

5 days ago in Sports

NFL is more wide open with no dominant or unbeaten teams through first 6 weeks

The NFL is more wide open than it's been in years. There are no dominant teams this season, no unbeatens through six weeks. Only the Buccaneers and Colts have five wins.