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All4Ed Flash: What This Year’s Election Means for Latinx Students and Their Families

Hello and welcome to this special episode of the All4Ed Flash, titled ‘What This Year’s Election Means for Latinx Students and Their Families.’ I’m Enrique Chaurand, VP of Communications at All4Ed and I’m honored to moderate today’s important discussion.

As we approach the upcoming election, it’s crucial to understand the potential effects it may have on our students and their families. Education is a cornerstone of opportunity, and the decisions we make today will shape the future for generations to come.

Representation matters. When Latinx voices are included in educational policy-making, it ensures that the unique needs and perspectives of our communities are addressed. 

This is why today’s conversation is so vital.

I’m thrilled to welcome our distinguished guests today. 

We are joined by Jenny Muñiz, Senior Policy Advisor at UnidosUS, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in advocating for educational equity. Thank you for joining us, Jenny.

We are also joined by Phillip Lovell, Associate Executive Director at All4Ed, who has been a long-time advocate for educational reform and equity. Thank you for being here, Phillip.

Together, we’ll explore the potential implications of this year’s election on education policies, discuss the challenges and opportunities ahead, and consider how we can collectively support the success of Latinx students and their families.

So what do you say….let’s dive into this critical conversation. 

Enrique

Jenny – since you’re our guest today, I’d like to kick off our discussion with you. Can you share a bit about UnidosUS and its mission, particularly in the context of education?

DRAFT QUESTIONS FOR FLASH PODCAST WITH UNIDOSUS

For UnidosUS and All4Ed:

  • Introduction and Background:
    • Can you share a bit about UnidosUS and its mission, particularly in the context of education?
    • At a high level, what education priorities does UnidosUS have for the next administration? 

Federal Budget

One of the values that UnidosUS and All4Ed share is a commitment to resource equity and the belief that there is a strong federal role to play in support of school funding. Let’s talk for a moment about the prospects for the Department of Education’s budget in the next administration. 

  • Phillip, what’s an example of a program All4Ed would like the next administration to prioritize?

Answer: Title I

  • Jenny, UnidosUS has long championed funding for Title III, which supports English language acquisition for English learners. Currently, the House and Senate have proposed very different approaches to funding this program. What’s the current state of play on Title III, and how would you like to see the next administration prioritize this program?

English Learners

Jenny:

  • What are the biggest challenges facing EL students today?
  • In addition to Title III, how can federal policies be improved to better support English learners in achieving academic success? 
  • What are some other ways the next administration can prioritize and support English learners? 

College and Career Readiness

This is obviously a highly contentious election, with both sides having very different views on issues such as school vouchers, DEI, and even the existence of the U.S. Department of Education. Do you see any opportunities for bipartisan policy in the next administration that could support Latinx students? 

  • Jenny Answer: 
  • PL Answer: CCR pathways

AI and Equitable Access to Technology (for both Jenny and Phillip)

  • How do you see the role of artificial intelligence evolving in the education sector, particularly in terms of enhancing learning experiences and outcomes for students?
  • What steps can be taken to ensure that advancements in AI and educational technology are accessible to all students, especially those from underserved communities?
  • Are there any specific initiatives or policies that UnidosUS and All4Ed are advocating for to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to these technologies?

Department of Education and OCR

We’ve talked about opportunities you’d like to see the next administration prioritize. Let’s take a minute to look at the other side of the coin. What’s at stake here? For example, Project 2025 – the blueprint developed by the Heritage Foundation for the next conservative administration – proposes to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, including its Office for Civil Rights. 

  • Jenny:
    • Why is it crucial to have a strong Office for Civil Rights within the Department of Education from UnidosUS’s perspective?
    • Can you provide examples of how a robust OCR has positively impacted Latinx students in the past?
  • Phillip: Why is it important to maintain the Department of Education? 

CLOSING

This has been a wonderful discussion. I want to thank both Jenny and Phillip for sharing their invaluable insights today.

I think we can agree that our discussion today has highlighted the critical importance of representation and the impact of educational policies on Latinx students and their families.

As we move closer to the election, it’s essential to remember that the choices we make will shape the educational landscape for future generations. 

Ensuring that Latinx voices are heard and included in policy-making is not just beneficial but necessary for creating equitable opportunities for all students.

Thank you to our listeners for tuning in and engaging with this vital conversation. 

Your interest and involvement are key to driving the change we need in our education system. 

Jenny, any last thoughts you’d like to share with our audience? 

Phillip, any parting words you’d like to share?

Thank you, Jenny and Phillip. 

Until next time, I’m Enrique Chaurand, thank you for tuning in to the All4Ed Flash.