Trump education cuts waste years of research in USA

Large cuts at the US Department of Education have sparked concerns among staff about wasted resources and lost progress. Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced these cuts as a move towards efficiency but many employees disagree, saying the changes will hurt students. Around half of the department's workforce was recently let go, with over 1,300 workers fired and nearly 600 resigning. Many essential offices, including those focused on research and data, faced heavy losses. A surviving employee described the atmosphere as somber, comparing it to a funeral due to the emotional toll on those affected. Staff members are particularly worried about the cancellation of nearly complete research projects. The cuts affect over 160 education research contracts worth $900 million, including one study on literacy improvements in Michigan. The employee stated much of the money spent will yield no benefits for schools or students. Critics question whether these cuts will improve the education system. They argue that halting critical research impacts the understanding of what works in classrooms. Rachel Dinkes, head of a non-profit focused on education, expressed concern that these cancellations disrupt proven methods that have led to better student outcomes. A federal judge in Maryland has temporarily blocked the layoffs, but the Trump administration is appealing this decision. Meanwhile, legal action has been taken by attorneys general from 20 states against these layoffs. The Department of Education maintained in a statement that it will continue to support its programs despite the cuts.