Why is Donald Trump Threatening to Cut School Funding?

Recently, there has been a heated debate regarding President Donald Trump's threats to cut funding for schools that refuse to reopen amid a pandemic. This topic has sparked discussions on the intersection of politics, public health, and education.

The Political Angle

President Trump's rationale behind this move is straightforward—he wants schools to reopen. Under his administration, the federal government has provided federal reimbursement for student attendance as part of the American Rescue Plan. However, if schools do not comply with reopening orders, they may lose this crucial support. This demand extends beyond federal levels, impacting state and local funding as well.

Reopening Schools vs. Taxpayer Expenses

The argument against non-reopening isn't just about compliance; it's also economic. Taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for empty schools and non-working teachers. Local governments and communities have been imposing school taxes to support these institutions, only to see them remain closed. Without students in the buildings, there is no justification for continuing to allocate funds for salaries and other expenses associated with closed schools.

Cross-country Data and Experience

President Trump's approach to reopening schools is informed by data from other countries where schools have remained open. The science and experience do not support a blanket closure. In numerous nations, children returning to school without detrimental health impacts has been evident. Studies and observational data indicate that there is minimal transmission from children to adults, and very few deaths among those under 18 have been recorded, with underlying medical conditions being a significant factor. The decision to keep schools closed is more political than medical.

The California Teachers Union Controversy

A major point of contention is the stance taken by the California Teachers Union, which demands the defunding of the police as a prerequisite for returning to work. This position is deeply political, conflicting with the prime objective of ensuring the health and safety of students and educators. Unlike requests for vaccines, PPE, or social distancing protocols, the demand for police defunding is entirely unrelated to public health standards or school safety measures. This posture further complicates the reopening debate.

Trump's Vision of Normalcy

President Trump's reasoning behind reopening schools is underpinned by a belief that "normalcy" will resolve public health issues. Despite scientific evidence, he remains focused on the appearance of normalcy, overlooking the real risks of children and teachers contracting and spreading the virus. This view is rooted in his early denial of the virus's threat, a stance he has clung to throughout the pandemic.

Conclusion

While the administration's push for school reopening is ostensibly rooted in public health, much of the pressure appears to be politically motivated. As the debate continues, stakeholders are urged to prioritize the health and well-being of students and teachers over political whims. In the upcoming election, the future of public education hangs in the balance, and it's crucial for citizens to advocate for objective, evidence-based policies for the betterment of society.

Please vote blue in November to ensure a more healthy and equitable future for education in the United States.