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Nova Dugan-Mezensky · February 5, 2025

Trump’s plan to end the U.S. Department of Education

President Donald Trump is preparing to sign another Project 2025 executive order, taking steps to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education and dismantle federal education protections. The Department manages approximately $1.6 trillion in federal student loan debt, oversees implementation and enforcement of the nation’s special education law, and administers Title I, the main federal program aimed at improving outcomes for lower-income students.

Without the U.S. Department of Education, there is a risk that disparities in educational quality and access could widen. While a lot of unknowns from this incoming order are still in the works, we know Trump’s order will disproportionately affect our most vulnerable students in Ohio. Leaving 815,000 low-income and 270,000 students with disabilities in Ohio without the support they need to succeed.

According to Endonomics Labs at Georgetown University, 17% of Ohio children have a disability but the share of special education funding they receive is the smallest in the country (8.1%). As a result, Ohio is ranked dead last at 50th on our special education staff to special education student ratio. Meaning, Ohio students with disabilities have the most to lose with the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education. 

Thankfully, America is on our side: 58% of Americans are against closing the U.S. Department of Education, with only 29% supporting. However, while the President can sign this executive order, fully abolishing the department would require congressional approval. That is where you come in…

As advocates for quality education in Ohio, it is crucial that we stay informed and engaged on this issue. We encourage you to contact your congress members and let them know you support the U.S. Department of Education and the federal protections it brings for Ohio children. 

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the future of Ohio’s education.

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