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Friend, From dismantling the Department of Education to cutting programs aimed at battling racial disparities in educational outcomes, this administration has made its stance on education clear. But, stripping funds from schools practically on the eve of the new school year is a new low. The administration has released a little more than 18% of that funding due to immense public pressure -- now we need the government to give out the rest of the money before the school year starts.(2)
These cuts are aimed at specific programs that have long been targeted by the Trump administration, including English language learning programs, migrant education, and basic adult literacy.(3) That means that students from low-income families, students with disabilities, and English learners will bear the brunt of this attack. (4) The practical impact of these cuts are already being felt, as California school districts are forced to cut programming, lay off teachers, and shutter services that benefit our communities. There is hope now that the administration just released a small portion of the withheld funds for after-school programming.(5) But, these funds still fall woefully short of the expected amounts, which is why Congress must act now. By raising our voices together, we can ensure that all children in California have access to the quality education they deserve. Thank you for being in the fight! –Irene, along with Annie, Angela, Isidra, Cecilia, Jen, and Lindsay (the Courage team)
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