Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) made the following statement after the Trump Administration announced it is reducing the Department of Education’s workforce by nearly 50%.
“Education is the single-most important investment we can make in the future of our nation. President Trump’s reckless, shortsighted decision to severely cut public education and eliminate half of the workers at the Department of Education is unconscionable and puts our students and our nation at risk, all so the Trump Administration can give billions of dollars to its ultrawealthy donors through tax cuts,” said Congressman DeSaulnier. “As a senior member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, I am angered and saddened for the tens of millions of students, including those with disabilities, children in underserved schools, and those who need help to pay for college, whose lives will be upended by the President’s misguided action. I will do everything I can to fight on their behalf as the President attempts to destroy public education in this country.”
Via US Department of Education (source)
U.S. Department of Education Initiates Reduction in Force
As part of the Department of Education’s final mission, the Department today initiated a reduction in force (RIF) impacting nearly 50% of the Department’s workforce. Impacted Department staff will be placed on administrative leave beginning Friday, March 21st.
“Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “I appreciate the work of the dedicated public servants and their contributions to the Department. This is a significant step toward restoring the greatness of the United States education system.”
The Department of Education will continue to deliver on all statutory programs that fall under the agency’s purview, including formula funding, student loans, Pell Grants, funding for special needs students, and competitive grantmaking.
All divisions within the Department are impacted by the reduction, with some divisions requiring significant reorganization to better serve students, parents, educators, and taxpayers.
Background
When President Trump was inaugurated, the Department’s workforce stood at 4,133 workers. After today’s actions, the Department’s workforce will total roughly 2,183 workers. Included in the reduction in force are nearly 600 employees who accepted voluntary resignation opportunities and retirement over the last seven weeks, including:
- 259 employees accepted the Deferred Resignation Program
- 313 employees accepted the Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment
Remaining employees impacted by the reduction in force will be placed on administrative leave beginning next Friday, March 21. Pursuant to regulatory requirements and the Department’s collective bargaining agreement, all impacted employees will receive full pay and benefits until June 9th, as well as substantial severance pay or retirement benefits based upon their length of service.
Other stories:
