I, like many others, have witnessed the devastating consequences of budget cuts and staff reductions within the Department of Education. This change is seriously harming the youth of our nation, the leaders of tomorrow. The ongoing education of our students is being negatively impacted; a result that cannot be understated.

There's no question about the correlation between the strength of a country's education system, and its economic and social health. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, nations that have improved the quality and reach of their education systems have experienced unprecedented economic growth, on the other hand, those who cut down on education have seen the opposite (McKinsey, 2007). The Department of Education is the backbone of our educational structure. It provides the necessary resources, qualified staff, and leadership crucial for the development of our students.

In subverting the importance of comprehensive education, we are handicapping the very individuals who will carry the weight of our nation's future. We need more leaders in education, not less. We need more resources and staff, not fewer.

Please, we urge you to restore our Department of Education system, to strengthen our nation's future, rather than dismantle it. We need your support to make this change. Join us in our mission, and please sign this petition.