October 2025 E-Newsletter

Greetings to our VFN Family and Community Partners.

Persevering Through Uncertainty: VFN Is Still Here

When the federal government shuts down, the effects ripple far beyond the Capitol. Paychecks are delayed, offices close their doors, and essential projects are put on hold. News headlines often highlight political dysfunction and uncertainty, painting a bleak picture, especially for communities that depend on federally funded services.

But there is another story worth telling.

It is the story of resilience. Of commitment. Of people who continue to show up. A government shutdown may symbolize dysfunction at the top, but it also reveals something powerful happening on the ground—individuals and organizations who continue to serve, support, and strengthen their communities regardless of the circumstances.

At Vermont Family Network, the lights are still on. Our work does not pause because of uncertainty in Washington. We remain steadfast in our mission to empower and support all Vermont children, youth, and families, especially those with disabilities or special health needs.

On October 10, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education issued reduction in force (RIF) notices to staff, set to take effect on December 9. These cuts, which coincide with the ongoing government shutdown, have resulted in mass layoffs across multiple divisions of the Department including the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP.) This situation severely jeopardizes critical federal functions such as IDEA implementation, monitoring, and the provision of technical assistance to states and organizations like ours.

Despite these challenges, Vermont Family Network continues to provide essential services to families. Family supports remain available even if assistance from the Department of Education is delayed or limited. Some families may have questions about what this means for them. We will continue to show up for families, youth, and professionals – families are not alone.

While our services are currently funded through a combination of federal and state grants, we understand that changing priorities at the federal level can affect even the most essential programs. That is why building financial resilience is critical. By growing our cash reserves, we can protect our ability to serve families during periods of federal instability or delayed funding.

Your support helps ensure that even in times of uncertainty, VFN remains a reliable source of strength and stability for Vermont families.

We are still here. And with your help, we will keep showing up.

From the heart,
Michelle Kessler
Executive Director

This month, we cover:

• October is National Bullying Prevention Month
• Family Faculty Program
• Student-led IEP meetings
• Updates from Puppets in Education
• Return of Tween Sibshops
• Genetics Corner
• Wellness Window