Last week, the Trump administration announced a significant reduction in the federal Education Department’s workforce, halving its employees. This week, the president issued an executive order to abolish the agency entirely. Despite this, individuals who were initially laid off were quietly rehired, as revealed by an internal organizational chart acquired by USA TODAY. Around thirty technology experts were reinstated after being let go from the Federal Student Aid office, a crucial division assisting students in funding their college education and managing nearly $2 trillion in federal student loans.
Although the White House maintains that the department still possesses ample resources to aid students in affording education and repaying loans, many remain skeptical. Doubters include current and former FSA staff, past education secretaries, and financial aid officers at colleges nationwide. College officials are grappling with unanswered queries now that terminated federal workers are not responding to their emails.
For instance, Brenda Hicks, financial aid director at Southwestern College in Kansas, recounted how an FSA employee supporting the initiation of a new nursing program at her institution was let go last week. With questions looming over who will authorize financial aid for the program, Hicks and her colleagues are in a state of uncertainty as student admissions for the nursing major are underway.
Amidst the layoffs, the FAFSA system briefly faced technical difficulties, preventing students from applying for financial aid. Although the Education Department claimed these issues were unrelated to the recent staffing cuts, the incident underscored the intricate support network necessary to sustain vital programs like the FAFSA. With key personnel, including IT professionals and financial aid approvers, no longer present, students are beginning to confront disruptions in the aid process.
In reference to the federal financial aid system, a spokesperson expressed concerns about the Trump administration’s recent staff reductions, emphasizing that the cuts are more severe than initially portrayed. Following the termination of numerous employees, particularly in the technology divisions, a significant number of them were swiftly rehired, as indicated by an internal organization chart.
Within the Office of Student Aid Program Management, responsible for overseeing the rollout of the FAFSA, there were staff members who opted for buyouts and early retirement offers, resulting in a reduction of about 10% within the division. Additionally, over 320 employees in the Federal Student Aid office received termination notices, though specific details on the layoffs were not provided by the Education Department.
Notably, the workforce reduction, including buyouts and layoffs, appears to have diminished the division by at least a third. This downsizing has raised concerns about the office’s ability to effectively manage student loan programs, with experts highlighting potential operational challenges arising from the loss of experienced personnel.
Despite reassurances from the Education Department that core functions related to the FAFSA and student loan servicing remain unaffected, college officials like Alyssa Dobson from Slippery Rock University remain anxious about the possible impacts on students and families. Financial aid officers, including Samantha Hicks from Coastal Carolina University, are already experiencing concerns from parents and students regarding potential delays and disruptions in services.
As the education landscape navigates these changes, it is evident that the repercussions of these staffing changes may be felt in the near future, prompting stakeholders to adapt to a shifting environment marked by uncertainty and evolving challenges.
Former education secretaries from both Republican and Democratic administrations have voiced concerns about recent cuts at the Federal Student Aid office and within the Education Department. Margaret Spellings, who served under President George W. Bush, emphasized the critical importance of smooth financial aid delivery for students considering college. Without proper support, students may be deterred from pursuing higher education. John King, who was the education secretary under former President Barack Obama, warned that reduced oversight could lead to an increase in predatory colleges taking advantage of federal funds. Similarly, Arne Duncan, who held the same position before King, expressed worry about the potential harm that could result from these changes.
