New York Governor Kathy Hochul and State Education Commissioner Betty A. Rosa issued a fiery joint statement condemning the Trump administration’s reported decision to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education and redistribute its functions to other federal agencies, warning that the move poses “catastrophic consequences” for public education nationwide and would directly jeopardize millions of New York students, teachers, and families. Labeling the plan a “direct attack” aimed at upending the state’s school system, the Democratic leaders vowed to fiercely resist any efforts to abolish the federal department, declaring that New York “won’t go down without a fight – not when our kids are on the line” in defense of equitable education funding, civil rights protections, and support for vulnerable students.
Joint Statement from Governor Kathy Hochul and State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa
“The Trump administration’s decision to tear apart the Department of Education carries catastrophic consequences for education nationwide. By outsourcing the Department’s responsibilities to other federal agencies, the administration is moving closer to its misguided goal of dismantling our education system, and in doing so, threatens to upend New York’s school system, putting millions of students’ educations at risk. Make no mistake, this maneuver is a direct attack on New York teachers, students, and families and its effects will be felt in schools statewide.
“New York is committed to standing up for our students and ensuring their futures remain front and center. We won’t go down without a fight – not when our kids are on the line.”
November 18, 2025
Albany, NY
Sources: Governor.ny.gov/ , Big New York News BigNY.com
