1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

There are valid concerns about the potential impacts of dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. A consistent, high-quality education system is crucial for the future prosperity and global competitiveness of our nation. Eliminating the department could disrupt vital funding streams, civil rights oversight, and nationwide standards that help ensure equal educational opportunities for all students, regardless of their background or location. While reforms may be warranted, a complete shutdown risks setting back decades of progress and leaving America's children at a disadvantage compared to their international peers. Ultimately, any restructuring should prioritize improving student outcomes and closing achievement gaps over political ideology and a desire to tear things down or for retribution.