Trump's big move in the war on education could strip students from schools

Salon - Mar 21st, 2025

In an alarming development, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, resulting in the termination of several key programs and studies. Among the casualties is an extensive 11-year study on youths with disabilities, designed to enhance educational and employment outcomes. This move has sparked widespread concern, especially from organizations like the National Down Syndrome Congress, which warns of dire consequences for students with disabilities. The decision also led to massive layoffs within the Department, including over half of the Office for Civil Rights staff, which plays a crucial role in addressing educational discrimination.

The backdrop to this development highlights significant progress made by individuals with Down syndrome, who have increasingly integrated into mainstream education and professional spheres. Notable figures such as Rachel Handlin, who became the first person with Down syndrome to earn a Master of Fine Arts degree, and Ana Victoria Espino De Santiago, the first lawyer with the condition, exemplify these strides. The potential rollback of governmental support threatens to undermine decades of progress in disability rights and inclusion, raising questions about the future educational opportunities for young individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Donald Trump Department Of Education Educational Policy Disability Rights Down Syndrome Office For Civil Rights

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RATING

5.4

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a compelling narrative about the achievements of individuals with Down syndrome and the potential challenges posed by changes in educational policy. While it effectively engages readers with personal stories, it lacks balance and transparency, as it does not sufficiently explore opposing viewpoints or provide detailed evidence for its claims. The absence of diverse sources and clear citations affects its credibility, though it remains relevant and timely in addressing issues of public interest. Overall, the article serves as a thought-provoking piece that highlights important social issues but would benefit from a more balanced and transparent approach.

Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that are generally verifiable, such as Geraldo Rivera's exposé of Willowbrook School and the achievements of individuals with Down syndrome. However, certain claims, like the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education and the firing of employees, require further verification and context. The article lacks specific sources or evidence to support these claims, which affects its overall accuracy. Additionally, the mention of Elon Musk's involvement in governmental decisions is unusual and lacks corroboration from reputable sources.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the negative implications of the executive order and the potential setbacks for students with disabilities. While it highlights the achievements of individuals with Down syndrome, it does not provide a balanced view of the potential benefits or rationale behind the executive order. The lack of representation of opposing viewpoints or perspectives from policymakers limits the article's balance.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and well-structured, with a logical flow of information. The language used is accessible and engages the reader effectively. However, the inclusion of multiple anecdotes and examples, while enriching, can sometimes detract from the main points, leading to potential confusion about the article's primary focus.

Source quality

The article does not cite specific sources or provide direct quotes from authoritative figures, which affects its credibility. The absence of diverse and reliable sources, such as government officials or educational experts, limits the reliability of the information presented. The reliance on a single perspective, primarily the author's, further diminishes the quality of the sources.

Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of the methodology used to gather information and the sources consulted. There is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest or biases that may influence the author's perspective. The basis for certain claims, such as the impact of the executive order, is not clearly explained, affecting the transparency of the article.