The Trump administration has made significant staff cuts at the U.S. Department of Education, with half of employees being laid off. This move is part of the president’s plan to dismantle the department and return control of schools to states. New Jersey, which relies heavily on federal funding for education, could suffer with reductions in federal education funding. The Department of Education assures that it will continue to deliver on its programs with fewer employees, but experts warn of potentially devastating impacts on students and families.
The layoffs have raised concerns about equity, nondiscrimination, and civil rights in schools. There have been questions about the legality of the mass layoff initiated by the department, as the authority to create and close federal agencies lies with Congress. The Office for Civil Rights, which investigates civil rights complaints, faces closure of regional offices and layoffs of staff, raising further concerns about the protection of civil rights in schools.
Additionally, the Federal Student Aid office, which handles grants and loans for college students including FAFSA, faces significant cuts in staff. The financial aid application process was previously complicated, and the reductions in staff could further impact students’ access to college aid. All impacted employees will receive full pay and benefits until June 9, along with severance or retirement benefits.
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