1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I understand the desire to reduce federal involvement in education, but eliminating the Department of Education would be detrimental to students across the country. The department plays a crucial role in administering programs like Title I funding for high-need districts, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and federal student aid. Dissolving it without a comprehensive plan would cripple schools' ability to provide essential support and services. Instead of outright elimination, I urge exploring reforms to increase state and local control while maintaining a federal safety net. The department oversees vital civil rights protections and helps ensure equitable access to quality education. Rather than defunding it entirely, we should have a rational discussion on how to improve its efficacy and shift appropriate responsibilities to states. However, abolishing it abruptly would do more harm than good for America's students.