As summer progress continues across Liberty Central School District, the commitment to supporting our students, staff, and community never stops. Recently, Superintendent Dr. Sullivan joined education leaders from across the country at the AASA/ASBO Legislative Advocacy Conference in Washington, D.C. During the conference, school leaders met with members of Congress to advocate for critical federal funding and share the unique needs, priorities, and successes of their local school districts.

Supporting Students Through IDEA Funding

A primary topic discussed at the conference was the importance of fully funding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA is a federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive a free public education and the specialized services and support they need to succeed, helping provide more equitable educational opportunities for all learners.

As districts continue to experience rising costs associated with special education services and staffing challenges, federal support remains an important resource in meeting the needs of students.

Fulfilling this commitment through a 10-year implementation plan would help bridge opportunity gaps by providing schools with the resources necessary to ensure students with disabilities have access to the support they need to thrive.

Additionally, education leaders advocated for continued investment in federal programs, including Title I, Title II, Title III, Title IV, Title V, and other grants that support student achievement, educator development, and expanded educational opportunities.

Keeping Student Internet Access Accessible and Safe

Liberty students and staff rely on reliable internet access every day to support teaching and learning, school operations, cybersecurity, communication, and transportation services. A key resource that helps maintain this connectivity is the federal E-Rate program, which provides funding to schools and libraries for affordable internet access.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently considering potential changes to E-Rate that could impact how school districts access this important support. Proposed changes include limiting eligibility for certain districts or expanding the program’s requirements beyond its original purpose of providing reliable connectivity.

It is critical that we help our elected officials understand exactly how their decisions shape our schools, staff, and students,” said Dr. Sullivan. “Serving as an AASA Governing Board member gives me a vital platform to advocate for our entire region. I am incredibly proud to champion our students and advance our mission of empowering every learner to thrive, contribute to a diverse community, and reach their full potential.”

The Road Ahead

Decisions made in Washington, D.C., can have a direct impact on classrooms here in Liberty. By participating in national legislative advocacy, Superintendent Dr. Sullivan helps ensure that the voices of Liberty students, families, and educators are represented in important conversations about the future of public education.