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

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding President Trump's proposal to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. Such a move would have significant adverse effects on South Carolina's education system, impacting funding, support for vulnerable students, and the overall quality of education in our state. Impact on Federal Funding: Federal funding constitutes approximately 15.2% of public school funding in South Carolina, equating to about one in every seven dollars. The elimination of the Department of Education would jeopardize these funds, leading to substantial budget shortfalls. This reduction could result in increased class sizes, layoffs of educators, and diminished resources for our students. Support for Low-Income Students: South Carolina relies heavily on Title I funding to support schools serving low-income communities. The proposed dismantling could cut approximately $63 million in Title I funding, impacting an estimated 310,000 students. This reduction is equivalent to removing nearly 1,000 teachers and specialized instructional support personnel from our classrooms. Services for Students with Disabilities: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides critical support to approximately 109,000 children with disabilities in South Carolina. The absence of federal oversight could lead to reduced services and support for these students, hindering their educational progress and violating their rights to appropriate education. Higher Education and Student Loans: South Carolina's public colleges and universities receive federal funding that supports various programs and financial aid initiatives. The dismantling of the Department of Education could disrupt the administration of federal student loans and grants, making higher education less accessible and affordable for many South Carolinians. Civil Rights Protections: The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights ensures compliance with federal civil rights laws in educational institutions. Without this oversight, protections against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability status, or age could be weakened, affecting the equitable treatment of students across South Carolina. In light of these potential consequences, I urge you to oppose any efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. Maintaining this federal agency is essential to ensure that South Carolina's students receive the quality education they deserve, with adequate funding, support, and protections in place.