Department of Education shutdown threatens its purpose of equal access

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True to his word, President Trump recently signed an executive order which eviscerates the Department of Education. Many critics feel that the new directive will compromise the department’s purpose of providing funds to public schools and universities. While reducing government spending by eliminating the department may, in a small way, lower the country’s debt, it’s bound to negatively impact Black and Latino communities.

Created as a cabinet-level department of the U.S. government in 1979, its mission is to “promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.” In addition to assisting with funding elementary and high schools, the department also provides federal student aid, including grants, for college students. The DOE supports students across the nation with federal student loans that can be forgiven, canceled, or discharged, where students may pay back some of their loan(s), or none.

The shutdown jeopardizes the most vulnerable population, Black and Latinos, who depend on school funding the most.

Andy Jimenez, a Black & Latino studies student at CUNY’s Baruch College understands the important role funding plays in higher education. The Dominican-born and raised student spoke about how a lack of educational resources contributes to the cycle of poverty and limited opportunities, which further deepens existing disparities in an interview with the AmNews.

“From my perspective, the availability of education funds is absolutely crucial for Black and Latino communities,” said Jimenez. “It’s not just about providing opportunities — it’s about addressing historical inequities and creating pathways to economic mobility.” He describes the abolishment of DOE as “devastating” for Black and Latino students, especially CUNY students.

The Department of Education also oversees and reviews federally recognized accrediting agencies, which helps CUNY maintain access to federal funds. With the proven positive influence the Department of Education has on schools like Baruch College, shutting down the department eliminates its beneficial advantages.

Dr. Arthur Lewin, a professor of Black & Latino Studies at Baruch College for over 40 years, thinks it’s a mistake for DOE to be shut down. “Education is essential for every community,” said Lewin. “Whatever we can learn about our history from the Department of Education is certainly welcome.”

Dr. Lewin, who is also an author as well as a Jamaican and African descendant, is a believer in not waiting for others to give Black people their history. “We must write it, read it, and spread that knowledge ourselves — the loss of these [education] funds provides impetus for us to do so.”

This mindset impacts Dr. Lewin’s proactive teaching by bringing his classes to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “We customarily visit the Egyptian exhibit and then proceed to the African exhibit — both separated by the entire length of the building,” said Lewin. On a recent class trip, his class visited an exhibition called, Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876–Now. “I was happy to see that this exhibit acknowledges not only that Egypt is in Africa, but that African Americans have long identified with Ancient Egypt, and for good reason,” said Lewin.

“That day at the MET, I learned that true power came from places often ignored or dismissed,” said Jimenez. “It made me realize that so much of what we’re taught is just a glimpse, a few pages in a textbook that we rush through without ever truly understanding.” Jimenez anticipates pursuing more knowledge, creating opportunities, and building a meaningful life. Financial cuts from the Department of Education challenge how Black and Latino students will have the needed resources for higher education.

“After 45 years, the United States spends more money on education by far than any other country yet near the bottom of the list in terms of success,” said Trump at a recent public appearance.

Stephen Barker, Director of Communications for OneGoal, explained that barriers will arise for postsecondary students who rely on federal financial aid, college and career readiness programs. OneGoal, the organization, has partnered with schools in low-income communities and prioritized students in the academic middle for over 15 years.

“The cuts are already confusing and may cause delays or disruptions in critical areas of support for students,” said Barker. She also said residual effects can include college acceptance withdrawal letters, losing financial support, underfunded schools and fewer educators.

Additionally, the Department of Education provides guidance, resources and support for families, students and schools impacted by natural disasters with their Natural Disaster Resources. Federal support is effective for education funding despite the president’s views. Congressional approval is still needed before the department is officially abolished.