National PTA urges reversal of mass layoffs at U.S. Department of Education

The National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) has issued a statement criticizing the recent mass layoffs at the U.S. Department of Education. The organization called on the Administration to reverse these actions and maintain the department’s role in supporting public education.

According to National PTA President Yvonne Johnson and Executive Director Howie Berman, “Last week, another round of mass layoffs was conducted in the U.S. Department of Education, reportedly eliminating most of the staff from both the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Office of Special Education. This follows March's historic layoffs, which cut nearly half the Department's positions, and came after the Supreme Court's July ruling allowing federal government layoffs to proceed.”

They added, “The Administration’s action to dissolve the U.S. Department of Education through mass layoffs remains a severe threat to public school students and families in our country. The U.S. Department of Education was created to ensure equal access to education for all Americans—regardless of zip code, ability, race or economic circumstance. Programs and funding streams administered by the Department of Education—including grants through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the disbursement of Title I funding—serve students and families most in need of vital supports.”

The PTA leaders expressed concern that reducing staff at the department will hinder its ability to manage federally mandated programs such as IDEA and Title I funding distribution. They stated, “Reducing the Department of Education’s capacity greatly impacts its ability to effectively administer federally mandated programs and funding appropriated by Congress. These roles and responsibilities are dictated by federal statue, such as the federal requirements of IDEA, and the Department of Education must be able to support states and school districts to meet these federal requirements and not leave millions of children and families behind. This breaks America’s promise of education and developmental support for all children and is a severe threat to ensuring every child has every opportunity to reach their full potential.”

Johnson and Berman emphasized their ongoing commitment: “For years, we've fought for full funding of IDEA and robust funding for Title I so students get the support they need to succeed. Advocating for programs that promote equitable, high-quality public education for all children has always been our top priority. Now more than ever, we need to strengthen public education, not dissolve the Department of Education. We will keep fighting loudly for every child, family and school in this country.”

The National PTA encourages members of the public to contact Congress in opposition to these layoffs.

The association represents millions across families, educators, administrators, business leaders, and community members who work toward educational success for children as well as increased family engagement in schools. More information about membership is available at PTA.org.