Welcome to our education update podcast. This week, we're diving into the latest developments from the Department of Education, which have significant implications for schools, students, and educators across the country.
The most significant headline this week comes from the Department's announcement to modify the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The Department plans to remove "nonbinary" as a gender identification option, stating that it will reflect "biological reality" by only recognizing male and female sexes[4]. This move has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it undermines inclusivity and the rights of nonbinary students.
This change is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. The Education Department has begun to implement these priorities, removing hundreds of guidance documents and training materials that mention DEI, disbanding diversity councils, and canceling DEI training contracts[5].
Another critical development is the Department's plan to eliminate Title I funding, which provides critical financial help to high-poverty schools and districts. Under Project 2025, states would receive no-strings-attached block grants with zero regulations or oversight, potentially straining already tight education budgets and undermining the academic outcomes of 2.8 million vulnerable students[2].
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond has responded to these changes, encouraging educators to "stay focused" and announcing a temporary restraining order against the Trump administration's efforts to pause school programs[1].
The Department has also announced improvements to the FAFSA form, aiming to launch the 2026-27 form by October 1, 2025. The public has 60 days to suggest improvements to the form via the Federal Register[4].
These changes have significant impacts on American citizens, particularly students and educators. The elimination of Title I funding could lead to a loss of thousands of teachers and limit children's access to quality instruction. The modification of the FAFSA form could make it more difficult for nonbinary students to access financial aid.
As Cathryn Oakley, Senior Director of Legal Policy at the Human Rights Campaign, noted, "Project 2025 would give Trump unprecedented powers to undo many of the protections the LGBTQ+ community have spent decades fighting to gain"[2].
Citizens can engage with these developments by providing feedback on the FAFSA form and staying informed about upcoming changes. The Department's actions will continue to unfold in the coming months, with the launch of the 2026-27 FAFSA form and the implementation of Project 2025.
For more information, visit the Department of Education's website or follow reputable education news sources. We encourage our listeners to stay engaged and advocate for the rights of all students, regardless of their background or identity.
Thank you for tuning in to our education update podcast. Stay informed, and we'll see you next time.
