Think Differently About Education Act of 2023

Floor Speech

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Mrs. HOUCHIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of a critical piece of legislation, the Think Differently about Education Act, as a proud cosponsor.

This bill is about empowering families, ensuring transparency, and providing the necessary support to students with disabilities as they navigate their educational journey.

Each year, in thousands of schools across the Nation, individualized education program meetings, or IEP meetings, are taking place. Parents and school staff come together to develop a personalized plan that addresses the unique needs of every child.

However, many parents face these meetings feeling overwhelmed and unsure. Some may not realize they have a right to bring an advocate, therapist, or lawyer to help them through the process. Unfortunately, most parents sit in these meetings without the support they deserve.

This is where the Think Differently about Education Act steps in, a simple, commonsense solution, but one that can make a world of difference. It would require K-12 schools to inform parents of their right to bring a third-party advocate to IEP meetings.

By empowering parents with this knowledge, we can ensure they are fully supported as they advocate for their child's education.

This isn't just about informing parents. It is about creating a culture where families feel supported and engaged in their child's educational journey.

Every child deserves a quality education that meets their unique needs, and every family deserves to be empowered to advocate for their child.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Think Differently about Education Act so that we can support more families on this journey.

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