By Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
Seeking a connection with the Wake County Board of Education? Toshiba Rice is making herself available to the community via Zoom on Mondays at 12:15 PM. Parents, students, and community members can get questions answered about resources and concerns. In this week’s meeting, attendees were informed about the US Department of Education cuts and how they will impact North Carolina. Rice reviewed the highlights of the significant negative impacts of cuts to the US Department of Education on K-12 public schools in North Carolina, as of March 2025. Key elements include:
Financial Impact: North Carolina schools receive substantial federal funding, with approximately $3.81 billion annually, accounting for nearly 20% of the state's total school revenue. Specific funding areas include $68 million for teacher and principal quality, $107 million for school programs and technology, and $448 million for 202,300 students with special needs.
Consequences of Budget Cuts: The reduction of half the US Department of Education workforce is projected to lead to the closure of rural schools, an increase in local property and state taxes, a decrease in the number of teachers (putting 27,600 jobs at risk), larger class sizes, and a reduced quality of education for all K-12 students in North Carolina.
Impact on Disadvantaged Students: $737 million in federal funding supports 752,300 students in disadvantaged rural and urban schools with lower property tax bases, indicating that these cuts would disproportionately affect vulnerable student populations.
In addition to her Monday Zoom sessions, Toshiba Rice is also available at Skate Ranch most Monday evenings, ensuring accessibility for all students, families, and community members seeking insight or assistance.
