Other core offices within the Department saw deep cuts, including the Federal Student Aid office, which oversees the loan portfolio for more than 40 million borrowers & has seen delays and disruptions to its ability to manage and review student aid complaints, among other issues.

such as enforcing federal civil rights law through the Office for Civil Rights, which has reportedly dismissed thousands of cases at a record pace.

Over the course of the year, the administration has effectuated roughly a 50% reduction in staff at the Department of Education, which has significantly hampered its ability to fulfill core functions

"Research shows that higher instructional spending and spending on student support services is positively correlated with higher degree attainment, but budget cuts have led to the elimination of course offerings and fewer student supports." - Wil Del Pilar, EdTrust's Senior VP

"That means that many of today’s students have external responsibilities that can force students to slow or altogether stop their educational progress. The overall funding landscape can also hinder attainment for students."

"But to understand how innovation can help lower costs and improve access and opportunity, it is important to first underscore the current context of today’s students."

Wil Del Pilar, Senior Vice President at EdTrust on “The Future of College: Harnessing Innovation to Improve Outcomes and Lower Costs.” edtru.st/43Cn8LI

"Yet for far too many students — especially students of color, students from low-income backgrounds, English learners, and students with disabilities — these opportunities have been limited, blocked, or impeded."

"The strength and stability of our nation’s economy, our democracy, and our position on the global stage is dependent on our ability to ensure that all students can access and receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the global economy."