The decision by the Trump administration to gut half of the U.S. Department of Education’s workforce is nothing short of a direct attack on America’s students, educators, and the future of public education itself and will have dire effects, especially for our most vulnerable students.

By firing thousands of dedicated public servants who work every day to expand learning opportunities, support educators, and ensure students have the resources they need to thrive, this administration has made it clear that they do not value our nation’s children or their futures.

These cuts will have devastating consequences in classrooms in Connecticut and across the country. Programs that reduce class sizes, provide critical special education services, ensure equitable access to quality education, and administer critical student loans and grant funding are now in jeopardy. Federal education funding, student loan oversight, civil rights protections, and teacher support programs are now in chaos.

Families depend on the Department of Education to provide not only essential services for the K-12 system but also access to higher education as well, through FAFSA and student loan programs.

Since the president lacks the authority to shut down a federal agency without congressional approval, he has taken the unprecedented step of decimating the department’s workforce instead.

We must stand together to prevent this catastrophic dismantling of public education. Our kids deserve better, and our communities deserve better. Congress must act to protect public education and ensure all students have the support they need to thrive.