Nellie Pou: “while we are talking about education in America, I want to talk about something more serious: the Department of…”

“while we are talking about education in America, I want to talk about something more serious: the Department of Education's continued war on our schools. Last month, without warning, the Department informed eight schools in our district that it was rescinding $8 million in critical funding. I urgently appealed to Secretary McMahon. My office met with the Department, and our school districts repeatedly sought engagement. We were ignored. Over the holidays, the Department informed us that the cuts were final and will begin immediately. Over the next 3 years alone, schools in our district will lose millions of dollars promised and planned for. The program has already shown positive educational outcomes, and the negative consequences for our kids will be felt for years to come. Our school districts have been willing to work with the Trump administration to remedy any issue to find a fair path forward, but that willingness has not been matched. Across the U.S., the Department of Education is dismantling public schools. New Jersey is the latest victim. I will continue working with our district school officials to use every single tool available to restore this funding and to fight to support public education. I will not give up on our children.”