Utah Disability Today

Call to Action: Threats to University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

Although the One Big Beautiful Bill Act does not explicitly mention UCEDD funding, UCEDD funding is currently being debated as part of the larger federal budget discussions, which are next on Congress's agenda.

UCEDDs have been supporting people with disabilities for more than 60 years through research, training, and community services. They are congressionally authorized and federally mandated. Every state has at least one UCEDD, and IDRPP is Utah’s.

If you have benefitted from the work of the IDRPP, now is the time to contact our congresspeople about the vital importance and profound impact IDRPP has had in the state of Utah and nationally. Find out how on our blog.

Some Important Court Cases Highlight

Disability Rights

Two recent court cases highlighted disability rights. One has been heard by the US Supreme Court; the other is still pending in the United States District Court in the District of Columbia.

Read more about how these cases affect student rights in the classroom and the use of sign language interpreters in the White House.

Strengthening Transition Planning Under IDEA

Across the United States, students with disabilities and their families face a pivotal moment as they prepare for life after high school. Whether the goal is higher education, employment, or independent living, the transition from school to adulthood is a critical juncture—and one that is too often marked by uncertainty and unmet needs.

IDRPP's Technical Assistance for Excellence in Special Education is working with state education associations to change that. Find out how on our blog.

AI Is Not (Necessarily) Accessible

Some educators and policy makers hoped AI would make learning on devices, such as mobile phones, tablets or laptops, more accessible for students with disabilities. But before adopting the technology, school leaders need to ask some important questions about how it will affect learning and what steps need to be taken to protect student privacy.

These 10-minute guided meditations are offered freely and those interested can sign up here. The dates and times can be found through the sign up link.

For a look at past IDRPP trainings, visit our YouTube channel.

NEWS FROM AROUND IDRPP

Cache Valley Daily featured our Utah Assistive Technology Program and Top Sports programs in its article about Porter Maughan (pictured on the right). Porter has used the assistive technology to compete in at least two valley events. He is pictured here at fun run in Nibley this spring.