Target: Tim Walberg, Chair of U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce
Goal: Do not approve or support ending U.S. Department of Education.
“I’m not quite certain. I’d like to look into it further.” U.S. Department of Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon provided this answer concerning the future of African American History classes in schools. At the confirmation hearing, McMahon also hinted that the department would no longer enforce programs for students with disabilities or other civil rights initiatives; student loan programs may take a hit as well. In under a month, the Trump administration has already fired department workers involved with civil rights, with special education, and with student aid. In addition, they have significantly slashed funding for a system that tracks and analyzes student achievement across the country. These maneuvers are widely seen as the first steps toward a complete dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education. President Trump himself affirmed, “I want Linda to put herself out of a job.”
Although this administration claims its push will “return control” of education to the states, in reality this control never left states and localities. A nationalized education department has always had the goal of supplementing local work. Its first iteration in the 1800s – also widely condemned by certain politicians – sought to provide educational opportunity for newly freed slaves. A national education department would not emerge again until President Jimmy Carter left it as part of his legacy. Today’s education department evaluates the performance of students and programs, ensures all students have fair education access, oversees federal student loans, and provides grants and other assistance to disadvantaged students. In short, it’s the backbone of public schooling.
Critics believe dismantling the Department of Education is really a means to undermine public schools while funneling more money into private, often religiously affiliated schools. Sign the petition below to demand Congress step up for America’s public school system by preserving its most important guardian.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Representative Walberg,
A recent survey revealed that most Americans –regardless of political affiliation – believe too little of this nation’s money is invested in education. Ending the U.S. Department of Education certainly would not help investment numbers, as the department invests billions of dollars every year in America’s future. Yet key funds are being slashed as we speak.
Since its first inception after the Civil War and its resurrection by President Carter, this department has stood for equal opportunity regardless of background, circumstance, or level of wealth. Nearly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of eradicating the U.S. Department of Education by executive order. Consequentially, an act of Congress is needed to end the department and its important work. Do not take this opportunity away from American youth. Protect the Department of Education.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Yan Krukau
124 Signatures