Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono criticized President Donald Trump’s decision to terminate nearly 1,300 employees at the Department of Education (ED), effectively reducing its workforce by half. Hirono expressed concern over the impact this move could have on schools and communities across the United States.
“The Department of Education supports low-income students and students with disabilities, prevents discrimination in the classroom, and ensures access to afterschool and summer programs, while supporting important services like school lunch for kids in need,” Hirono stated. She emphasized that Trump’s actions would “wreak havoc on schools and communities across the country.”
Hirono argued that these changes are not aimed at improving schools or government efficiency but are part of a broader plan to dismantle government functions for privatization purposes. She claimed that Trump, alongside Elon Musk, is prioritizing tax cuts for billionaires over children’s futures.
The Department of Education manages federal programs supporting students from early childhood through college and career stages. It plays a role in promoting early childhood programs, aiding low-income students and those with disabilities or experiencing homelessness, administering federal student aid such as loans and grants, and collecting data on student achievement.
Despite needing Congressional approval to abolish the department entirely, Trump has already made significant budget cuts to ED’s funding. This includes offering financial incentives for personnel to resign and cutting $600 million from teacher training grants—actions which further strain rural school systems facing teacher shortages.
Furthermore, nearly $900 million in contracts overseen by ED’s Institute of Education Sciences (IES) were terminated last month. The IES is responsible for gathering data on teaching practices and student achievement used by educators nationwide.
Senator Hirono underscored the importance of a strong public education system for economic success and global competitiveness. “Our country cares about education,” she said, urging collective efforts to protect children’s education.
