3:39The Department of Education in Washington, March 6, 2025.Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images
The U.S. Department of Education has withdrawn essential guidelines for schools on delivering English language instruction to approximately 5 million students nationwide.
On Tuesday, the department removed a 2015 Dear Colleague letter that assisted school districts in supporting English learners, ensuring compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
In a statement to ABC News, officials described the document as overly restrictive, claiming it placed excessive control on state education systems.
The Department of Education in Washington, March 6, 2025.Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images
“States have diverse needs for these students and are better positioned to decide the most effective educational approaches within federal legal requirements,” the department stated.
A note indicates the document remains accessible online solely for historical reference.
The Washington Post initially reported the policy reversal.
Critics fear the change eliminates federal safeguards, potentially enabling discrimination against students learning English.
However, eliminating the guidance does not directly affect school funding or state curricula, which remain under local control.
Roxanne Garza of the Education Trust warned the decision might intensify anxieties among immigrant students concerned about returning to schools amid tighter immigration policies.
“This could reinforce feelings of alienation—making families believe they aren’t welcome in their communities,” she remarked.
Montserrat Garibay, former head of the Office of English Language Acquisition, compared the rescinded guidelines to a vital handbook for educators serving English learners. She emphasized how crucial the document was in directing resources to students during her tenure.
Garibay noted that around 75% of students in English programs are U.S. citizens, arguing that reduced support would have enduring consequences.
“These children will one day support our social systems. It’s unacceptable to deny them the tools needed for success in today’s world,” she said.
Garibay also suggested the decision contradicts an executive order by President Trump earlier this year declaring English the nation’s official language.
The Los Angeles Unified School District confirmed its services for English learners would remain unchanged despite the policy shift.
“Our dedication to language support ensures English learners gain proficiency and excel academically,” a district spokesperson told ABC News. “We remain committed to meeting every student’s needs.”
Education advocates strongly opposed the department’s action.
In this July 15, 2025, file photo, Education Secretary Linda McMahon prepares to do a live TV interview with Fox News outside of the White House in Washington, D.C.Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images, FILE
Viridiana Carrizales of ImmSchools expressed concern: “This administration is dismantling protections and resources essential for 5 million English learners.”
Carrizales noted educators face growing challenges supporting immigrant students as institutional safeguards decline.
“Teachers are struggling to help these students with fewer resources at their disposal,” she observed.
Anne Kelsey of the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights called the decision damaging to immigrant families, stressing that language access strengthens communities and improves education.
“Ensuring language rights fosters engagement and better academic results,” Kelsey stated.
Restoring state control over education has been a cornerstone of President Trump’s agenda, with Education Secretary Linda McMahon recently launching a nationwide tour promoting this initiative.
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
