Federal education officials have announced layoffs affecting a significant portion of staff dedicated to critical programs, including special education services, financial support for disadvantaged students, and civil rights enforcement. The reductions come as the agency restructures operations amid ongoing budgetary and operational challenges. Advocates warn the cuts could weaken protections for vulnerable student populations and limit oversight of equity in education. The move raises concerns about the long-term impact on marginalized learners and compliance with federal education laws.
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.
