AFSCME President Saunders Criticizes Executive Order on Education Dept.

In a recent development, an executive order from the Trump administration has drawn significant attention and criticism for its implications on the Department of Education. Critics argue that the order could severely impact public education across the United States, sparking discussions about the future of schools under such policies.

Concerns Over Education Funding and Resources

According to AFSCME President Lee Saunders, the executive order represents a key component of "Project 2025" and aims to dismantle the Department of Education. Saunders highlights that the order is not about improving public schools but rather about depriving them of necessary resources. "Dismantling the Department of Education has nothing to do with improving public schools and everything to do with starving them of the resources to succeed," Saunders stated.

He argues that such measures would negatively affect students, especially those from vulnerable communities, by increasing class sizes, degrading school infrastructure, and exacerbating staffing shortages. Furthermore, individuals seeking financial aid and benefits like Public Service Loan Forgiveness may find access more challenging.

Impact on Educators and Local Governments

The potential repercussions extend beyond students, threatening the job security of numerous school employees, including teachers, custodians, and bus drivers. Saunders warns that the burden of education funding, already primarily managed by states and municipalities, will increase significantly. He describes the situation as a potential threat to the livelihoods of working families across America.

Saunders expresses concern about the influence of wealthy individuals on public education, emphasizing the need for collective action to resist such changes: "We can't allow billionaires like Elon Musk and Linda McMahon to come into our neighborhoods, gut our public schools and auction what’s left to the highest bidders."

With 1.4 million members, AFSCME is preparing to organize and oppose the changes, advocating for better educational conditions for all children.