Statement from Dr. Amy Loyd, CEO of All4Ed on Conferenced Appropriations Bills
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2025
Contact: Enrique A. Chaurand
Email: echaurand@all4ed.org
Washington, D.C. – “Today’s bipartisan action in the legislation funding the U.S. Department of Education represents a critical stand for students, educators, and the integrity of our federal education system. I applaud Congressional leaders from both parties for reaffirming Congressional authority over the Department of Education and rejecting the administration’s use of illegal interagency agreements (IAA) to undermine essential education programs.
“This move follows a call from over 1,000 organizations, educators, and other supporters of public education for Congress to put an end to the administration’s illegal IAAs. As stated by advocates nationwide, “Our students deserve stability. Our states deserve clarity. And our nation deserves a federal government committed to supporting all states and protecting the civil rights and educational opportunities of all students.”
“We have already witnessed the real harm caused by the transfer of the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education (OCTAE) through an unauthorized IAA. This move has disrupted vital programs that serve millions of students pursuing career pathways and adults seeking to advance their skills and education. The chaos and uncertainty created by this action has left states, schools, and community colleges scrambling—and students paying the price.
“Congress’s commitment to continued investment in the U.S. Department of Education sends an unambiguous message: our nation’s students deserve stability, not political gamesmanship. Education policy must be guided by what works for learners, not by administrative overreach that violates the law.
“Now it’s time for this administration to follow the law. This bipartisan leadership gives us hope that the harm we’ve seen will cease and that we can return our focus to where it belongs—ensuring every student has access to a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, career, and life. At All4Ed, we will continue to advocate for policies that put students first and uphold the rule of law.”
###
