U.S. Department of Ed
As a progressive educator, I’ve always believed that education should be a pathway to equity, opportunity, and empowerment for every student, regardless of their background. That belief is why I find discussions about dismantling the U.S. Department of Education (ED) both concerning and misleading. While some political figures, including former President Donald Trump, have suggested eliminating the Education Department in favor of giving control back to the states, this oversimplifies the department's role and how it supports students across the country, myself included.
One of the most common misconceptions about the Department of Education is that it sets curricula for K-12 schools. In reality, the Department doesn’t dictate what schools teach; that responsibility lies with state and local governments. The federal government’s role in K-12 education doesn’t extend to determining the content of lessons or the standards for individual classrooms, that’s left to states and school districts. So, when politicians talk about sending education “back to the states” by eliminating the Department, it overlooks the fact that states and local school systems already have the authority to shape what’s taught in the classroom. This idea isn’t new, and it doesn’t change the essential structure of how education operates across the country.
While the Department of Education doesn’t control school curricula, it plays a crucial role in supporting students and ensuring that education is equitable, particularly for those who are often underserved. Many of the programs the Department administers are essential to students across the country who rely on federal support to access higher education, gain financial aid, and even navigate the challenges of being the first in their family to attend college.
One of the Department’s most significant roles is ensuring that underserved and vulnerable students receive the support they need. Through the Title I program, the Department provides critical funding to schools that serve large numbers of low-income students. These funds help schools hire additional teachers, support core academic areas like reading and math, and offer essential resources that low-income districts might not otherwise be able to afford.
Growing up, I benefited from federal programs like these. I attended schools where resources were stretched thin, and Title I funding was a lifeline. It helped ensure that I had the support I needed, both in and out of the classroom. It’s an essential program for providing equity to students who otherwise might be left behind.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is another key program under the Education Department. This law mandates that students with disabilities receive the necessary accommodations to succeed in school, whether that’s small class sizes, adaptive technology, or other support services. The federal government provides states with funding to help implement IDEA, which helps ensure that students with disabilities are able to access the same opportunities as their peers.
For many students, IDEA is more than just a legal requirement, it’s a lifeline. My work as an educator has shown me firsthand the importance of providing these supports to help all students succeed.
For students like me, who come from a low-income background, the Education Department was instrumental in making college a possibility. Programs like the Pell Grant and the TRiO program have allowed me, and countless others, to attend college and pursue our dreams. The Department of Education ensures that the financial aid system works, from helping students apply for aid through FAFSA to ensuring that the money is distributed to colleges promptly.
As a first-generation college student, I wouldn’t have had the chance to attend university without federal financial aid programs. The TRiO program, which specifically supports low-income, first-generation, and students with disabilities, provided me with mentoring, academic support, and guidance that were crucial to my success. These programs helped me navigate the often overwhelming higher education system and provided the resources I needed to not just survive, but thrive.
The Department of Education also plays a vital role in protecting civil rights in schools. Through the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), the Department ensures that students who face discrimination, whether due to race, gender, disability, or other factors, have a mechanism for filing complaints and seeking justice. This office helps protect the rights of students with disabilities, ensuring that they have access to the supports they need, and also addresses issues like racial discrimination in schools.
As an educator, I’ve seen how crucial it is for schools to be accountable when it comes to civil rights. Every student deserves to learn in an environment where they feel safe and supported, and the Education Department ensures that schools adhere to the laws that protect these rights.
Finally, the Education Department plays a critical role in education research through the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). This arm of the Department collects and analyzes data on educational practices, student performance, and school outcomes. The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), known as the “Nation’s Report Card,” provides invaluable data on student achievement in areas like reading and math.
These research efforts help us understand how our education system is performing and where improvements are needed. Without this data, it would be much harder for policymakers to make informed decisions that address disparities in education.
As someone who has benefited from federal education programs, I know how critical the Department of Education is in making college and success in the classroom a reality for students who might not otherwise have those opportunities. The idea of dismantling this department doesn’t just remove a layer of bureaucracy, it threatens the support systems that make education accessible to those who need it most.
While it’s true that states and local districts hold primary responsibility for curriculum and educational standards, the federal government’s role in providing funding, protecting civil rights, and supporting vulnerable students cannot be overstated. The Department of Education is an essential part of the infrastructure that ensures fairness and equity in education.
As a progressive educator, I’m deeply concerned about the push to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. Yes, we should always strive to improve our education system, but we must also recognize the invaluable role that the federal government plays in ensuring that all students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds—have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed. The Department of Education may not set the curriculum, but it sets the foundation for a more equitable education system.
Without the Department’s support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. For students who need financial aid, accommodations, or even just a pathway to higher education, these federal programs are essential. Education is a right, and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.
