U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has announced a series of layoffs at the Department of Education, describing it as the first step in a broader initiative to restructure the department, with the possibility of shutting it down entirely. This decision has sparked strong criticism from education leaders, including AFSA President Leonard P. Pugliese.

Pugliese expressed deep disappointment with the cuts, particularly in light of the House of Representatives' recent passage of a continuing resolution to fund vital education programs through September. The legislation was intended to stabilize schools amid ongoing challenges, such as persistent achievement gaps and educator shortages. Pugliese argues that these layoffs undermine that funding.

“These cuts are a direct threat to the critical programs our students and schools depend on,” said Pugliese. “Congress has worked to secure funding for essential programs that support all students, and now the administration is jeopardizing their viability by removing the very federal workers responsible for ensuring their efficient and lawful implementation. This is a grave mistake.”

McMahon's decision is seen as part of a larger agenda by the Trump administration to reduce the federal government’s role in public education, aligning with the objectives of Project 2025.

In response to the announcement, AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler issued the following statement:

“Firing half of the staff so that the Department of Education cannot function will jeopardize the resources, programs and protections that give millions of students the opportunity to succeed. Public schools are the cornerstones of our communities: they provide free, universal education for working families, feed and care for our kids, and create millions of good union jobs. The Department of Education provides critical support to educators and school staff, and financial aid and student loans that put college and trade schools within reach for working families who wouldn't  otherwise be able to afford it.

“We urge members of Congress to safeguard our taxpayer dollars by quickly acting to protect services that are essential to American life and provide vital support to our nation’s students, parents and educators.”