As the official voice of the nearly half a million California State University (CSU) students, the Cal State Student Association is vehemently opposed to the Trump Administration’s Executive Order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. Such a move would be a catastrophic blow to the accessibility, affordability, and equity of higher education, particularly for California’s diverse student population.   Eliminating the Department of Education poses a direct threat to CSU students by dismantling crucial federal and state support that ensures access to quality education for diverse student populations. The Department of Education administers essential programs such as federal financial aid, including Pell Grants and student loans, which students heavily rely on. This financial aid is critically important to our students as nearly half of CSU students do receive the Pell Grant.     Furthermore, the department plays a key role in setting and maintaining academic standards, promoting equity, and supporting initiatives that help students succeed, especially those from underrepresented and low-income backgrounds. Without these resources and protections, many students would face increased financial burdens, reduced opportunities, and diminished support in navigating their higher education journey. The absence of such a department would jeopardize the accessibility and affordability of education, ultimately undermining the opportunities for students at the CSU and across the nation.   The CSSA calls upon the administration to prioritize investment in education, not its destruction. We urge Congress and our elected officials to protect the Department of Education and ensure that all students have the opportunity to pursue their academic goals. We will stand in solidarity with students across the nation to defend the principles of accessible, equitable, and quality higher education. (fb)

Join statewide student leaders for an engaging discussion on securing financial aid and shaping the future of college affordability in California. Register for the town-hall today! Link in bio (fb)