Special Education In Charles County Unaffected By Federal Funding Cuts

CHARLES COUNTY, Md. — Charles County Public Schools officials reassured families this week that special education services and support programs remain secure, even as uncertainty continues at the federal level.

At the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025, Superintendent Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D., addressed national reports of a federal Office of Special Education Programs shutdown, emphasizing that local special education funding is not at risk for the 2025–26 school year. “The school system continues to follow all federal and state special education laws, including IDEA and Section 504,” her report noted.

Navarro said CCPS does not expect any interruptions to services or staffing connected to federally funded programs, including Title I through IV, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Perkins funding under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act.

Superintendent Report for Charles County Public Schools — Screenshot of October 14 Superintendent Report

Navarro said the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has alerted local school systems that federal school meal program funding could be affected by the shutdown. Nutrition programs are currently funded through this month, she said, and MSDE plans to seek state support for reimbursements next month if the shutdown continues into November.

Navarro encouraged families to complete the free and reduced-price meal application, noting that it is quick to fill out and that benefits become available soon after eligibility is confirmed. Families can visit ccboe.com and find the application under Quick Links on the homepage.

Navarro concluded her report with a reminder that she will host a virtual “State of the Schools” event on Thursday, Oct. 16, at 7 p.m. via Zoom. The event will provide updates on the district’s new strategic plan and allow families to share feedback. Participants must have an active Zoom account, and a link to join is available at ccboe.com.

To view the full Oct. 14, 2025, Board of Education meeting, including the superintendent’s report and Human Capital Update presentation, visit the Charles County Public Schools YouTube channel at youtube.com/ccpsmd.