Any Cuts to Federal Education Programs Could Have Lifelong Consequences for Millions of Children – Especially Across Rural America

FAIRIFELD, Conn. (March 20, 2025) – Following today’s executive order calling to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education, Betsy Zorio, Save the Children’s Vice President of U.S. Programs, issued the following statement:

“Millions of children across America, especially the 2.9 million growing up in rural poverty, depend on federal education programs. These programs ensure students in low-income schools can access the learning opportunities they need to build foundational reading and math skills – skills that determine their future success. Maintaining this federal education funding is crucial, especially at a time when nearly 70% of U.S. students cannot read proficiently by the end of third grade, putting them at a significantly higher risk of dropping out of high school.

Any cuts to this funding could have lifelong consequences, and children in rural communities would be hit hardest. Rural schools already face deep disparities, with limited resources and fewer support systems for struggling students. Taking away federal education funding could wipe out after-school and summer programs that help children catch up, leaving them even further behind.

They could also strip funding for literacy programs and parent engagement, which help kids in low-income communities succeed in the classroom.

The data is clear: Education is one of the most powerful tools to break the cycle of poverty. Federal education programs help ensure children—no matter where they live—can access the learning opportunities they need to thrive. Without this support, rural schools and communities will be forced to make devastating choices, potentially closing essential programs that children and families depend on.

For over 90 years, Save the Children has been working to support the unique needs of children living in rural America. We partner with rural schools across the country to close the education gap for kids living in poverty and have seen firsthand how federal investments have helped struggling students rebound after the pandemic.

Now is not the time to turn our backs on these children. The administration and Congress must protect vital education programs for America’s kids. The futures of millions of children – particularly those in rural communities – depend on it.”