1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

The recent bill introduced by Senator Mike Rounds to abolish the U.S. Department of Education is deeply concerning. This federal agency plays a critical role in ensuring equal access to education and upholding civil rights protections for millions of students across the country. Eliminating the Department of Education would undermine key programs and services that support students with disabilities, low-income families, English learners, and other marginalized groups. The proposal to redistribute the department's responsibilities to other agencies fails to consider the expertise and specialized focus required to address the diverse needs of the nation's educational system effectively. Moreover, the potential impact on federal student loan administration, enforcement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and international educational exchange programs like the Fulbright-Hays Program could be detrimental. Education transcends partisan politics and affects every community in our nation. Rather than dismantling the Department of Education, we should be strengthening its capacity to provide equitable educational opportunities and safeguard the rights of all students. I urge you to reject this misguided bill and reaffirm your commitment to a robust federal agency dedicated to advancing education for all Americans.