Gutting the Education Department, and a Trump Tesla Show

President Trump’s proposed budget for 2020 includes significant cuts to various government agencies, including the Department of Education. The proposed budget would slash funding for the Education Department by $7.1 billion, or roughly 10% of its total budget. This move has sparked outrage among educators, parents, and advocates for public education, who argue that gutting the Education Department would have devastating consequences for students and schools across the country.

The Department of Education plays a crucial role in ensuring that all students have access to a quality education. It provides funding for programs that support low-income students, students with disabilities, and English language learners. It also oversees the implementation of federal education laws, such as the Every Student Succeeds Act, which aims to improve academic outcomes for all students.

By cutting funding for the Education Department, President Trump is putting these vital programs and initiatives at risk. Schools that rely on federal funding to support their most vulnerable students will be forced to make difficult decisions about how to allocate their limited resources. Students with disabilities may not receive the support they need to succeed in school, and low-income students may lose access to critical services like free and reduced-price meals.

In addition to cutting funding for the Education Department, President Trump has also proposed a new initiative that has raised eyebrows among both supporters and critics alike. The Trump Tesla Show, as it has been dubbed, would involve a partnership between the federal government and Tesla, the electric car company founded by Elon Musk. The goal of the initiative is to promote STEM education and encourage students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math.

While the idea of promoting STEM education is certainly commendable, many have expressed concerns about the potential conflicts of interest that could arise from a partnership between the government and a private company. Critics argue that such a partnership could give Tesla unfair advantages in the marketplace, as well as raise questions about the role of government in promoting specific industries.

Overall, the proposed gutting of the Education Department and the Trump Tesla Show are both controversial moves that have the potential to have far-reaching consequences for students and schools across the country. As the budget process moves forward, it will be important for educators, parents, and advocates to speak out against these harmful proposals and fight for a strong, well-funded Department of Education that prioritizes the needs of all students.