The federal shutdown is impacting special education programs here in Oklahoma. One local nonprofit, the Arc of Oklahoma, is stepping to help families navigate this complex system.

The Arc of Oklahoma has been in in Tulsa for almost 75 years and advocates to promote the full inclusion of children with disabilities. Now, the nonprofit faces challenges.

“We're getting those calls each and every day because the federal government has laid off nearly all the staff in the office that enforces the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or what's known as IDEA," said Lisa Kelly, CEO of The Arc of Oklahoma. "Those federal staff were responsible for making sure that schools follow the law, and the federal funding is used properly to support students with disabilities."

While state leaders a

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