Lives Upended: Former Ed Dept Employees Alarmed Over National Education Cuts

What Is Happening?

Education Secretary Linda McMahon has announced that she will close the U.S. Department of Education. This follows an order from President Donald Trump on March 20. Because of this, many workers have lost their jobs, and people are worried about students, especially those who need extra help.

Why Are People Upset?

McMahon said that U.S. students are not doing well in school, so shutting down the department will help. But many people disagree. They believe this decision will take away important rules and protections for students.

Groups like the NAACP and teachers’ unions have gone to court to stop the order. Many former employees are struggling after losing their jobs. Some of them shared their stories.

Stories from Former Workers

“I Don’t Know What Will Happen Next”

Kissy worked in education for many years before joining the department. She helped colleges that serve Hispanic and underprivileged students. In January, she was told to stop working because of new rules against diversity programs.

“This is painful,” she said. “These programs help all students, not just some.”

Kissy is also sick with multiple sclerosis and colon cancer, making her job loss even harder.

“The hardest part is not knowing what will happen next,” she said.

“This Is a Disaster”

Denise Joseph worked in the department for many years. She helped manage grants and train staff. Even though she did her job well, she was told to leave in January.

“We knew this might happen,” she said. “But now that it’s real, it’s very scary.”

She worries that without government rules, many students will not get the help they need.

“If there is no oversight, students from poor backgrounds will suffer the most,” she warned.

Even after losing her job, Denise continues to fight. She recently got a doctorate degree in education and still speaks up for students.

“Everything Is Stuck”

Victoria DeLano worked in the Office for Civil Rights. She helped students who faced discrimination. She also has a disability, so this work was personal to her.

In February, she was suddenly fired—only two months after starting the job. A court let her return to work for a short time, but then she was told to leave again.

“There were 12,000 open discrimination cases when Trump became president,” she said. “Now, those cases—including mine—are stuck because of all these changes.”

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What Happens Next?

Trump’s order is already making big changes. Some people are trying to stop it in court, but the Department of Education is already much weaker.

Without government support, students who need extra help—like those with disabilities, students from poor families, and those who need financial aid—may struggle even more.

Kissy, Denise, and Victoria don’t just worry about their jobs. They worry about the future of education in America.

What Can You Do?

The U.S. education system is at a turning point. Policymakers, teachers, and citizens need to speak up and make sure students get the support they need.

What do you think about these changes? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay updated by following The 74 Newsletter.