"We both got fired on exactly the same day
Well, we'll float on, good news is on the way"

Float On by Modest Mouse

Hi Reader,

Every so often, I shift the newsletter’s focus to major education news—because whether you’re a parent or an educator, these decisions affect you. Education doesn’t always make headlines, but the policies being made today will shape classrooms, students, and opportunities for years to come.

Hired to be fired...

Linda McMahon has officially been confirmed as the new Secretary of Education, and she’s made one thing clear: her goal is to shut down the Department of Education.

In her speech, Our Department’s Final Mission, she painted a picture of an education system pushing “radical anti-American ideology.” But here’s the thing—this simply isn’t true. The Department of Education isn’t a propaganda machine. It funds essential programs, including special education, Title I schools, and student aid. If it disappears, who fills the gap?

Her 3 Priorities:

1️⃣ Parents as Primary Decision Makers – Yes, parents should have a voice in their child’s education. But education is complex, and we need professionals—teachers, specialists, and experts—to guide us. For many families, placing the full weight of a child's education on parents isn’t a relief, it’s a burden.

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​2️⃣ Refocusing on Core Subjects – McMahon claims taxpayer-funded education should focus only on math, reading, science, and history—not “divisive DEI programs and gender ideology.” But this is misleading. Schools aren’t choosing between core subjects and inclusion—they’re doing both. Teaching accurate history, fostering critical thinking, and creating welcoming environments for all students is meaningful education. But education isn’t just about test scores—it’s about educating the whole child. Making sure students feel seen, supported, and valued at school isn’t a distraction from learning; it’s what makes deep, meaningful learning possible.

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​3️⃣ Education as Workforce Training – McMahon argues that postsecondary education should be a direct path to a well-paying job aligned with workforce needs. But colleges and universities do more than hand out credentials—they are hubs of research, innovation, and critical thinking. Reducing higher education to job training ignores the broader value of learning, discovery, and preparing students to shape the future, not just fill positions.

What Happens Next?

If the Department of Education is dismantled, states will scramble to replace funding for critical programs. Special education, student lunch programs, Pell Grants—what happens to them? Who ensures every child has access to a quality education, no matter where they live?

It’s no surprise that most Americans don’t support this plan—an NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found that 63% oppose shutting down the DoEd, compared to just 37% in favor.

Final thoughts

No matter what thoughts you’re left with, please don’t give up on public education. There’s power in numbers, and schools are stronger when families stay engaged. This is just the beginning—there will be a lot of court cases that come from these decisions. I believe the results of McMahon’s speech won’t reflect the outcomes we’ll actually see, and we need to keep pushing for what’s best for our kids.

What are your thoughts? Hit reply and let me know!

What's New?

🍎 4th Grade: My Favorite Advice for 4th Graders will be out later this week. We will dive into ways to support your tween, skills they should have entering 4th grade, and my favorite book recs. Make sure you have youtube notifications turned on!​

🍀 Story Time: I'll be the story time reader at The Batch House bakery Sat 3/15 at 10am. I picked out some of my fav springtime and St Patrick's day books. If you're local to Charlotte come on out! I'll have some treats for the kids. Please note, story time is usually outdoors.

Things I Love

🧼 squeaky clean: Welp I did the math and it was so worth it! I bought my jumbo sized Tula face cleanser in November 2023 and I just ran out. I used to buy the cleanser a few times a year. I swear by this cleanser to keep my skin happy and remove makeup.

☘️ Great Sale: Primary is having a 30% off sale to celebrate ten years in business! They make great basics for kids and adults that are so soft. Check out their St Patty's Day shop and use the code 10YEARS for 30% off everything.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and questions about the Dept. of Ed- just respond to this email.

Take care!