The proposal to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and significantly reduce funding and staffing for public education would have far-reaching consequences, particularly for students from historically underserved backgrounds who rely on federal protections and resources to access a quality education.
Public education is a key driver of equal opportunity in America. The Department of Education plays a critical role in ensuring that all students, regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, or disability status, have access to an education free from discrimination. Eliminating the agency would weaken oversight and enforcement of civil rights protections, potentially leaving students without necessary safeguards.
One of the most significant concerns is the potential weakening of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protects students from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded educational institutions. Arab American students and other ethnic minority groups have long faced challenges such as discrimination, bullying, and racial profiling in schools. Without the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to investigate and address these issues, students would have limited recourse in instances of discrimination, creating barriers to a safe and equitable learning environment.
Additionally, students with disabilities depend on federal oversight to uphold their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These laws ensure that students receive necessary accommodation, individualized education plans (IEPs), and support services. Reducing federal involvement could result in inconsistent enforcement of these protections, leaving students with disabilities vulnerable to inadequate educational support.
Funding cuts would also have a significant impact on English Language Learner (ELL) programs, which serve millions of students across the country, including many Arab American and immigrant students. Without sufficient funding, schools may be forced to reduce bilingual education programs, limit access to English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction and cut essential translation and interpretation services.
For example, an Arabic-speaking student who recently immigrated to the U.S. may rely on an ELL program to build English proficiency while keeping up with core subjects. Without this support, the student could struggle to understand classroom lessons, complete assignments, and engage with peers, ultimately falling behind academically. Similarly, a Yemeni refugee student who is fluent in Arabic but has limited English skills may be unable to access textbooks or standardized tests in their native language, making it difficult to demonstrate their knowledge and potential. Without adequate funding, schools may lack trained ESL teachers or classroom aids, forcing students to navigate a language barrier without structured support.
The elimination or weakening of federal oversight would also affect parents with limited English proficiency, who depend on school-provided translation services to communicate with teachers, understand school policies, and advocate for their children’s education. Without these services, parents may struggle to engage with their child’s school, leading to lower parental involvement and decreased student success rates.
The proposed cuts would disproportionately impact students from immigrant communities, low-income families, and historically marginalized groups, exacerbating educational disparities. Arab American students, like all students, benefit from a learning environment that supports academic achievement, cultural inclusivity, and equal access to resources. Reducing federal oversight threatens decades of progress toward educational equity and could deepen existing socioeconomic divides.
We urge Congress, state leaders, and all stakeholders to prioritize an equitable and fully funded public education system that upholds civil rights protections for all students. NNAAC remains committed to advocating for policies that ensure Arab American students, and all marginalized communities, have access to safe, supportive, and high-quality educational opportunities.