To the Editor: Sherry L. Foley recently wrote a clearly defining letter regarding S1701 and the necessary legislative support that is required, should we want change. In addition to S1701, I would like readers and neighbors to support full federal funding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. By supporting both endeavors, we could increase state and federal aid to benefit more students within our township. Congress reauthorized the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) on November 19, 2004 and at that time many state and national organizations gave qualified support to the reauthorization bill, which includes positive provisions on professional development, paperwork reduction, early intervention and discipline. Challenges remain, however, as full funding of IDEA has yet to occur. Central to the reauthorization of IDEA this year is the need for full funding. The failure of Congress to provide full funding for the past 26 years has adversely impacted the ability of local schools to provide quality educational services for all children. According to the National Governors Association, states are experiencing budget deficits ranging from $40-50 billion nationwide. Given this situation, now more than ever, it is imperative for Congress to meet this commitment. Students with disabilities have a right to the same educational opportunities as all other students, and the federal government has an obligation to pay for part of it. It’s past time to remove IDEA from the annual funding showdown and make good on a 26-year-old promise. The IDEA Funding Coalition is a working group of nine non-profit education associations sharing an interest in special education finance. The coalition is dedicated to creating mandatory resources for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. For more information, please contact one of its members, the NEA, in addition to the senators as well as governor. National Education Association - Randy Moody, 202-822-7594 For more information: www.nea.org Michelle Fenwick West Milford