Association urges the Administration to reverse the layoffs and preserve the Department's critical role

ALEXANDRIA, Va., (Oct. 14, 2025)—The following statement can be attributed to National PTA President Yvonne Johnson and National PTA Executive Director Howie Berman, MA, CAE:

“Last week, another round of mass layoffs was conducted in the U.S. Department of Education, reportedly eliminating most of the staff from both the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Office of Special Education. This follows March's historic layoffs, which cut nearly half the Department's positions, and came after the Supreme Court's July ruling allowing federal government layoffs to proceed.

“The Administration’s action to dissolve the U.S. Department of Education through mass layoffs remains a severe threat to public school students and families in our country. The U.S. Department of Education was created to ensure equal access to education for all Americans—regardless of zip code, ability, race or economic circumstance. Programs and funding streams administered by the Department of Education—including grants through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the disbursement of Title I funding—serve students and families most in need of vital supports.

“Reducing the Department of Education’s capacity greatly impacts its ability to effectively administer federally mandated programs and funding appropriated by Congress. These roles and responsibilities are dictated by federal statue, such as the federal requirements of IDEA, and the Department of Education must be able to support states and school districts to meet these federal requirements and not leave millions of children and families behind. This breaks America’s promise of education and developmental support for all children and is a severe threat to ensuring every child has every opportunity to reach their full potential. 

“For years, we've fought for full funding of IDEA and robust funding for Title I so students get the support they need to succeed. Advocating for programs that promote equitable, high-quality public education for all children has always been our top priority. Now more than ever, we need to strengthen public education, not dissolve the Department of Education. We will keep fighting loudly for every child, family and school in this country.”

Join National PTA in sending an urgent message to Congress to demand the Administration reverse the layoffs and preserve the critical role of the U.S. Department of Education.

About National PTA

National PTA® comprises millions of families, students, teachers, administrators, and business and community leaders devoted to the educational success of children and the promotion of family engagement in schools. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association that prides itself on being a powerful voice for all children, a relevant resource for families and communities, and a strong advocate for public education. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who wants to be involved and make a difference for the education, health, and welfare of children and youth. For more information, visit PTA.org.