1. United States
2. Va.
3. Letter

The mass layoffs and proposed dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education are deeply concerning actions that threaten the future of public education and students across the country. The Department oversees the distribution of billions in federal funding for schools, administers student loan programs involving trillions of dollars, enforces civil rights laws in education, and plays a vital role in promoting equal access to quality education for all Americans. Eliminating this essential agency would have devastating consequences, from jeopardizing resources for underprivileged school districts to disrupting the repayment and servicing of student loans impacting millions of borrowers. Moreover, it would undermine efforts to uphold educational standards and safeguard the rights of students, especially those with disabilities or facing discrimination. I urge you to take immediate action to protect the Department of Education and its critical functions. The dismantling of this agency would severely undermine educational opportunities and deal a catastrophic blow to the nation's future. We cannot allow ideologically-driven downsizing to sabotage an institution so pivotal to providing every child a fair chance at success through education. The Department must be preserved and its workforce reinstated to fulfill its vital mission. What specific actions will you take to protect students, educators, and the right to education for all Americans?