Federal education officials have announced significant staffing cuts affecting key programs, including special education services, financial support for low-income students, and civil rights enforcement. The reductions impact nearly one-fifth of the agency’s remaining workforce, raising concerns about the potential consequences for vulnerable student populations and compliance oversight. Critics warn the changes could weaken protections for disadvantaged learners and limit oversight of discrimination cases. The move follows broader budget constraints and restructuring efforts within the agency.
About a fifth of the agency’s remaining staff was affected, including employees working on special education, funding for low-income students and civil rights enforcement. By Sarah Mervosh Michael C.