In America, Every Child Deserves to Learn and Thrive: NCJW Condemns Illegal Move to Further Dismantle US Department of Education

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, November 18, 2025
PRESS CONTACT: press@ncjw.org

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced that the Trump administration is planning to illegally act to further dismantle the US Department of Education — moving six critical functions to other federal departments without Congressional oversight or authorization.

In response, Darcy Hirsh, vice president of government relations and advocacy at National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) — the nation’s leading Jewish feminist civil rights organization, representing 250,000 changemakers across the United States and Israel — released the following statement:

“Today’s announcement that the Trump administration is taking major steps to close down the US Department of Education is heartbreaking for all students across our country, who deserve equal opportunity and educational access. The president knows he does not have the authority to dismantle a department created by law, so he’s trying to do it piecemeal by moving critical offices, programs, and functions to different agencies. The Trump administration is simply betting on its ability to hollow out the Department of Education before anyone can put a stop to it — harming children across America in the process.

“Make no mistake: this is not about efficiency or returning power to the states. This is about stripping away the protections that ensure every child — regardless of disability, race, religion, financial means, or personal identity — has access to a quality education. Moving these offices and scattering their functions across agencies with different missions and competing priorities will weaken their effectiveness and leave millions of vulnerable children behind.

“Our Jewish values teach us that education is a sacred responsibility — that we must ensure every child can learn and thrive. NCJW and our 250,000 advocates will continue to demand that Congress reassert its constitutional authority and protect the Department — and education for the 50 million children who depend on it.”

###

National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a 133-year-old Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. Through the efforts of our 250,000 grassroots advocates and 46 local sections, NCJW combines education, direct service, and advocacy to effect lasting social change at the local, state, and national levels. We approach our work through the intersections of gender, economic, and racial justice to center those most impacted in a uniquely Jewish way. Learn more at NCJW.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.