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Trump's actions signal a move toward institutionalizing people with disabilities, advocates warn
By Annie Ma, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 1, 2026
· 6 min read
For decades, disabled people have fought for their rights to go to school and live alongside peers without disabilities — rights that some fear could be losing ground under the Trump administration. Last month, the Education Department announced it would offload oversight of special education to ...
Key takeaway Last month, the Education Department announced it would offload oversight of special education to the Department of Health and Human Services, led by Robert F.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
In San Antonio , where schools have made strides in inclusive education, the Trump administration's moves are particularly concerning. Local families who have fought for their children's right to attend school alongside nondisabled peers may see their hard-won gains eroded. The city's own experiences with deinstitutionalization efforts, which have aimed to move people with disabilities out of segregated settings and into community-based care, could be undermined by the Department of Justice's new guidance. San Antonio's disability advocates will be watching closely to see how these changes play out in local schools and social services, and how they may impact the city's efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community for people with disabilities. The potential return to a medical model of disability could have far-reaching consequences for San Antonio's most vulnerable residents, and could roll back years of progress in promoting accessibility and equality.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: schools ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? For decades, disabled people have fought for their rights to go to school and live alongside peers without disabilities — rights that some fear could be losing ground under the Trump administration. Last month, the Education Department announced it would offload oversight of special education to ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Annie Ma, Associated Press at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more schools coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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