US Education Department lays off 20% of staff: How will this affect the future of student support?

The US Department of Education laid off over 460 staff, cutting 20% of its workforce amid the government shutdown. Key offices overseeing student learning assessments, special education, and financial aid were heavily affected. Nearly 90% of employees have been furloughed. Earlier cuts in March halved staff numbers, and some workers were rehired after the move was deemed excessive. The layoffs risk disrupting essential student support services during an ongoing funding stalemate.