Coalition sues Trump administration over attempts to dismantle Department of Education

Jackie Anderson Vice President | American Federation of Teachers

A coalition of educators, school districts, and unions has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in response to its efforts to dismantle the Department of Education. The legal action was initiated by Democracy Forward on behalf of several educational bodies and unions in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.

Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, stated, “Today, we defend all people who depend on the Department of Education to ensure public schools are safe, accessible and welcoming.” She criticized President Trump's executive order as an "abuse of power" that threatens the future of education in America.

The lawsuit highlights concerns over mass layoffs at the Department. Before January 20, 2025, there were 4,133 employees; following recent actions by the Trump administration, only 2,183 remain. The complaint also points out that plans have been made to transfer programs such as the Office for Special Education Programs and Federal Student Aid to other federal agencies without relevant expertise.

Ilana Krepchin from Somerville School Committee expressed concern over potential harm to students if the department is dismantled: “Dismantling it would cause real harm — not only to our students and schools but to communities across the country.”

Jessica Tang from American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts emphasized that "dismantling the federal government’s role" could significantly impact students with great needs. AFT President Randi Weingarten warned against using these changes as a pretext for tax cuts while undermining public education.

Mark Bernard from AFSCME Council 93 called the executive order "just plain cruel," stressing its negative impact on families relying on services under acts like IDEA. Todd Wolfson from American Association of University Professors highlighted risks to higher education access if funding is stripped away.

April Verrett from SEIU affirmed their stance against these actions: “Working people are not going to stand idly by while this administration destroys public education.”

The case raises constitutional questions regarding Congress's consistent funding for Department functions over decades. Further information can be found at democracyforward.org.