Trump admin cancels another $350M in contracts as it targets DEI initiatives
The Department of Education recently made a significant decision to cancel nearly $350 million in funding that was deemed as “woke” spending. This move was aimed at addressing what the agency believed to be wasteful and ideologically driven initiatives that were not in the best interest of students and taxpayers. The cancellation of 10 contracts with Regional Educational Laboratories (REL) amounted to $336 million and was a part of the agency’s efforts to streamline their activities.
The Regional Educational Laboratories have been in existence for close to 60 years and are responsible for conducting research on various aspects of the education system. However, a review found that some of the initiatives funded by these contracts were related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. For example, the Regional Educational Laboratory Midwest was found to be advising schools in Ohio to undertake ‘equity audits’ and ‘equity conversations’. In response to these findings, the Department of Education has decided to terminate these contracts and focus on initiatives that align with the statutory requirements and improve student learning outcomes.
In addition to the cancellation of contracts with RELs, the Department of Education also terminated $33 million in grant funds to four Equity Assistance Centers. These centers were involved in providing training on DEI, critical race theory, and gender identity to state and local education agencies, as well as school boards. The agency’s decision to cut funding for these programs was part of a broader effort to eliminate taxpayer-funded initiatives that were deemed divisive or unnecessary.
President Donald Trump has been a vocal critic of the Department of Education and has expressed his desire to abolish it, citing concerns about the quality of education provided to American students. He has criticized the department for its high cost per pupil and its low ranking compared to other countries in the world. The recent cuts in funding for DEI initiatives and other programs are seen as a step towards reevaluating the department’s priorities and ensuring that taxpayer funds are used efficiently.
Overall, the Department of Education’s decision to cancel millions in funding for DEI initiatives and other programs reflects a shift in priorities towards more targeted and effective education policies. By streamlining their activities and focusing on initiatives that directly benefit students and educators, the agency aims to improve the quality of education in the United States.
