As we look toward the future of education in America, one thing is clear: the policies that emerged during the Trump administration, and those carried forward under Project 2025, will have far-reaching effects on all students, but especially on children of color. These changes will reshape how schools address equity, access, and inclusion for historically marginalized communities.

1. The Expansion of School Choice and Privatization: What It Means for Communities of Color

One of the cornerstones of the Trump administration’s education policy was a push for school choice, including the expansion of charter schools and private school voucher programs. Project 2025 aims to continue this trend, promoting alternatives to traditional public education.

For children of color, this policy is a double-edged sword. While school choice can provide opportunities to escape underperforming schools, studies reveal concerning trends. According to the National Center for Education Statistics(NCES), public schools serving predominantly Black and Hispanic communities receive about $23 billion less in funding annually compared to predominantly white school districts, even though they serve the same number of students. Diverting funds to charter and private schools often exacerbates this disparity, leaving traditional public schools—where most children of color are educated—with fewer resources to meet their students’ needs.

2. Curriculum Changes: A Narrower Lens for History and Social Issues

Under the Trump administration, there was a push to restrict the teaching of topics like systemic racism and critical race theory, favoring a more traditional, patriotic narrative. Project 2025 appears to carry forward similar policies, emphasizing a “positive view” of American history.

This shift raises significant concerns for children of color. Research from the Southern Poverty Law Center shows that only 8% of U.S. high school seniors can identify slavery as the central cause of the Civil War. A curriculum that fails to address systemic racism or the contributions of marginalized communities risks further alienating students of color, undermining their sense of identity and belonging. Parents and educators must advocate for inclusive and culturally relevant teaching that reflects the full spectrum of American history.

3. The Digital Divide: A Growing Gap in Access to Technology

Technology-driven education became a hallmark of the Trump administration’s policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the digital divide remains a critical issue for children of color. According to a report by Pew Research Center, 35% of Black and Hispanic families lack reliable access to high-speed internet at home, compared to 21% of white families.

As Project 2025 promotes the expansion of online learning platforms, this gap threatens to leave children of color further behind. Without equitable access to technology and digital literacy programs, these students face significant barriers to academic success in an increasingly digital world.

4. Teacher Accountability and the Impact on Diverse Students

Policies that emphasize teacher accountability through standardized testing often have unintended consequences for children of color. According to research from the Education Trust, Black and Hispanic students are disproportionately affected by high-stakes testing policies, as their schools are more likely to face funding cuts or closures due to underperformance.

Additionally, teachers in underfunded schools serving predominantly children of color face greater challenges, from larger class sizes to fewer instructional resources. This creates a cycle where schools struggle to meet testing benchmarks, perpetuating inequities in educational outcomes.

5. Funding Cuts and the Threat to Equity

Under the Trump administration, there were proposals to reduce federal funding for education programs like Title I, which serves low-income students, and IDEA, which supports special education. According to the Center for American Progress, 80% of Black and Hispanic students attend Title I schools, making them especially vulnerable to funding reductions.

Cuts to these programs could mean fewer resources for after-school programs, mental health services, and extracurricular activities—resources critical for supporting children of color who face systemic barriers. Advocacy for equitable funding is essential to ensure these students have access to the tools they need to thrive.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Parents and Educators

The changes brought about by the Trump administration and Project 2025 will undoubtedly have lasting effects on children of color. From school choice policies to curriculum changes and funding cuts, these shifts present both challenges and opportunities. For parents and educators, the key will be staying informed and advocating for the needs of children of color, ensuring they have access to a high-quality, equitable education that reflects their experiences and prepares them for the future.

At Pearls of Grace, we understand the unique struggles faced by children living in poverty and the parents and educators who guide them. Through our programs, mentorship opportunities, and advocacy initiatives, we work tirelessly to create environments where children can thrive despite systemic challenges.

If you share our passion for empowering the next generation, we invite you to subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about our work and the latest educational developments. For those ready to take an active role in this movement, consider becoming a member of Pearls of Grace. Together, we can ensure that all children, receive the education, encouragement, and opportunities they need to succeed.

Visit Pearls of Grace today to learn more about how you can join us in this vital mission.

References

1. National Center for Education Statistics (NCES):
   Data on funding disparities between predominantly Black and Hispanic schools and predominantly white schools.
   Link: nces.ed.gov
2. Southern Poverty Law Center:
   Research on teaching slavery and systemic racism in U.S. schools.
   Link: splcenter.org
3. Pew Research Center:
   Report on the digital divide among Black and Hispanic families.
   Link: pewresearch.org
4. Education Trust:
   Research on the impact of standardized testing on Black and Hispanic students.
   Link: edtrust.org
5. Center for American Progress:
   Analysis of federal funding cuts and their impact on Title I and IDEA programs.
   Link: americanprogress.org