Protect educational rights, funding, civil rights safeguards from rollbacks

The Trump administration's plan to dismantle the Department of Education raises grave concerns about protecting essential educational rights and resources for America's students. Eliminating federal oversight could jeopardize funding for critical programs that support students in poverty, with disabilities, and English language learners. Many public school districts heavily rely on this federal aid to maintain basic operations like teacher pay, transportation, and classroom resources. Without federal enforcement of civil rights laws, there are valid fears that vulnerable students could face discrimination without recourse. Stripping federal student loan management raises questions about ensuring affordable access to higher education for all qualified students. While states hold primary control over education, the federal role provides key protections, funding equalization, and civil rights safeguards that cannot be readily replicated or sustained at the state level alone. Before proceeding with restructuring that could have generational consequences, a comprehensive plan detailing how core functions will be preserved and funded should be provided for public review and Congressional approval. Hasty dismantling without that threatens to undermine the nation's commitment to public education as a societal bedrock.