1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

In light of the recent news about plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, it is crucial to recognize the vital role this agency plays in ensuring equal access to quality education for all Americans. The Department oversees key initiatives like Title I funding for disadvantaged students, Pell Grants for low-income college students, and civil rights enforcement in education. Eliminating it would jeopardize these essential programs and exacerbate existing inequalities in our education system. While the federal contribution to public school budgets is relatively small, the funds from the Department provide invaluable support for vulnerable student populations, such as those facing homelessness or poverty. Additionally, higher education institutions heavily rely on federal research grants and financial aid facilitated by the Department. Dismantling it would severely undermine access to post-secondary education for many. The request is to safeguard the U.S. Department of Education and its critical role in promoting educational equity and opportunity across the nation. Maintaining this federal agency is crucial to upholding our commitment to providing all Americans with the quality education they deserve, regardless of their circumstances.