FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 20, 2025
Contact: [email protected]
Anchorage—Today, NEA-Alaska stands in firm opposition to President Trump’s executive order calling for the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) and calls on Alaska’s congressional delegation to exercise their constitutional responsibility to provide proper checks and balances on the executive branch of the federal government.
“Dissolution of USDOE requires an act of Congress,” said Tom Klaameyer, President of NEA-Alaska. “The Department of Education provides many things, including vital support for Alaska students with special needs, through the Individuals with Education Disabilities Act. Alaska receives the most Title 1 funding per pupil of any state in the nation. Over 51,000 Alaskan students benefit from that support which is a direct function of the USDOE. As we all understand, Alaska isn’t even providing adequate state funding for our public schools right now. What’s going to happen if we are left to bear the burden of a huge loss in federal funds?”
“Historically, NEA-Alaska may not have always agreed with decisions or directives coming from the Department of Education,” continued Klaameyer, “however, whether it’s through gutting the department from the inside, or seeking congressional approval for the complete elimination, the most vulnerable students in America, and the educators who serve them will ultimately pay the price.”
NEA-Alaska is calling on Senator Murkowski, Senator Sullivan, and Representative Begich to stand up for Alaska and oppose the elimination of the United States Department of Education.
For more information, please contact [email protected]
