Due to the recent economic climate of the state of Michigan, Michigan State University has begun its process of eliminating valuable degrees in attempt to lessen state spending. As the major of Deaf Education becomes increasingly scarce, the importance of maintaining this major amplifies. MSU is one of only two schools in the entire state to offer this program. Eastern Michigan is the other school that provides Deaf Education, although they only offer a concentration in Auditory/Oral, whereas MSU offers that, along with Bilingual/Bicultural and Consultant/Itinerant concentrations. According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), deaf children are guaranteed a quality education in the least restrictive environment. If MSU does not provide this major, there will not be qualified professionals to fulfill this requirement. In-state Michigan teachers will not have the option to study Deaf Education, and out-of-state Deaf Education teachers are highly unlikely to move into a state as economically stricken as ours. Of all the promises Michigan is being forced to break, do not let them break this. It is not fair to our deaf children who deserve an exceptional education, just as any child does. It is their RIGHT! Please support the reversal of the process that is attempting to throw out the Deaf Education Program at MSU. By signing this petition, you are supporting a redistribution of the budget that allows for this major to remain. Please do not leave our deaf children behind, MSU is their only hope. Our children are depending on you. ** Please note, your signature does NOT require a donation. After your signature is recorded, you will be given the option to donate money to the website, NOT our petition or cause. Again, you do not need to donate any money. Thank you.