Oklahoma Senate
Senate Democrats comment on dismantling of U.S. Dept. of Education
OKLAHOMA CITY – Members of the Senate Democratic Caucus issued the following statements in reaction to the president’s executive order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education.
“We have seen nothing so far that gives me confidence this change will be well-planned or avoid negatively impacting student learning. Swift policy shifts at the state level have already had a negative impact on the classroom. Educators are left scrambling to understand what's happening while simultaneously trying to support students and prepare for the upcoming school year. This is truly alarming. However, Oklahoma Senate Democrats are committed to doing everything in our power to protect Oklahoma’s students.” – Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City.
“Turning over the reins to those in our state that have consistently pulled down children’s opportunities leading to Oklahoma ranking 49th in education should make every parent concerned about their child’s future opportunities. Rolling back protections for every student to receive appropriate educational interventions jeopardizes our future workforce and economy.” – Assistant Senate Democratic Leader Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City.
“Only an act of Congress can end the U.S. Department of Education, however, President Trump’s executive order to decimate this agency, the cutting of experienced staff in half, eliminating federal oversight, ridding accurate data collection, gutting the civil rights division and education research arm, greatly harms American children, particularly, our most underserved children. We already have local control of our students’ education. Let’s not be deceived.” – Sen. Regina Goodwin, D-Tulsa.
“This action by the Trump administration is alarming and will do nothing to improve student outcomes. Upending programs geared towards those with learning disabilities and in high poverty environments without any forethought or solid plan will be disastrous. Furthermore, turning these programs over to the state of Oklahoma, whose education system is in disarray and almost dead last in rankings under the inept leadership of Superintendent Ryan Walters, will compound our problems. Walters is woefully underprepared and incapable of handling the responsibilities he currently has, let alone being handed new ones.” – Sen. Mark Mann, D-Oklahoma City.
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For more information, contact:
Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov
Sen. Carri Hicks at 405-521-5543 or Carri.Hicks@oksenate.gov
Sen. Regina Goodwin at 405-521-5598 or Regina.Goodwin@oksenate.gov
Sen. Mark Mann at 405-590-4471 or Mark.Mann@oksenate.gov
