1. United States
2. Conn.
3. Letter

The dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education would have far-reaching consequences for students, teachers, and the education system as a whole. Federal funding and oversight play a crucial role in ensuring equal access to quality education and supporting vulnerable student populations. Cutting off this vital source of funding could severely impact schools in low-income areas and those serving students with disabilities or English language learners. Without federal oversight, there are concerns that states may misallocate funds intended for these groups or fail to enforce anti-discrimination laws properly. Furthermore, the Department's role in administering student aid programs like the FAFSA and managing the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio cannot be understated. Disruptions to these functions could create significant barriers for students seeking higher education opportunities. While states have primacy over education policies, the federal government provides essential resources and safeguards that promote equity and access. A complete dismantling risks undoing decades of progress and leaving millions of students behind. Therefore, I urge you to reconsider this misguided effort and instead work to strengthen and improve the Department to better serve all students.