The Value of Education
By Leyla Dedic | Opinions | Sept. 29, 2025
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (SCPDA) — Over the past year, multiple resolutions regarding the future of education have been considered or passed in Congress and in the Florida Legislature. Many of these decisions have a considerable effect on the future of Stanton College Preparatory School students. Since more budget cuts are being introduced by state legislators, school boards, and Congress, it is becoming apparent education is being neglected.
Past considerations and decisions regarding budget cuts reflect this, such as Florida House Bill 5101 and Senate Bill 7030, which included the 50% budget cuts to Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate programs suggested by Florida lawmakers. This, along with the eradication of the United States Department of Education by President Donald Trump and repeated efforts to defund certain educational programs raises questions about the value of education in schools.
The American education system is failing, as shown in recent students’ academic performances on standardized tests. According to the National Assessment of Education Progress, between 2019 and 2022, NAEP test scores on reading and math have dropped by nine and four points respectively. Although schools are continuing to return to their pre-COVID-19 pandemic standards, the challenges are still apparent. A report from 2024 by the Center of Reinventing Public Education, which covers changes in education, states the average American student is less than halfway to full academic recovery from the pandemic.
Regardless of the efforts to assist with students’ academic recovery, budget cuts continue to make it difficult. For the 2025-2026 school year, Duval County Public Schools faces a $100 million budget deficit, which is resulting in teachers being laid off and a reduction in resources. With limited resources available to students, academics might suffer. While budget management may help with funding loss, students may face the risk of distracting environments and limited resources instead of assistance to aid in understanding curriculum. Students will have to face the costs of their education rather than stability.
Students with special needs will also have to face the effects of budget cuts to their education. According to Education Week, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act initially required the federal government to provide 40% of federal funds towards special education. However, the government was never able to reach this compromise, only funding around 13%, which led to changing standards. Special education gives those with disabilities a fair and equal chance at education, requiring these programs to have certain resources, staff, and services to assist students. The funding cuts result in fewer supporting staff such as school counselors and paraprofessionals. This would result in students receiving less individualized attention.
Over the last school year, budget cuts and policy changes have either been considered or established by Congress, Florida Legislature, and DCPS. The value of education is beginning to diminish and lose importance, which is negatively affecting students, faculty, and school districts. Student resources and programs are becoming limited, increasing challenges for success. Although managing budget and funding is important, it should not be at the cost of students’ education and their futures.