Why is the Department of Education So Important?

The U.S. Department of Education was founded in 1979 through an act of Congress to help realize the promise of a quality public school for every student no matter where they live, the color of their skin, or how much their family makes.

From the 1980s until now, the Department of Education has been a critical champion in enforcing federal statutes that prohibit discrimination and ensure every student has access to an education that will help them reach their full potential. Yet, the department is under threat: President Trump has issued an executive order to abolish the U.S. Department of Education, even though the majority of Americans do not support this action. Dismantling the department means defunding programs that feed, educate, and protect our most vulnerable and underserved students, and leaving many families fearful and anxious and communities reeling.