As the confirmation hearings for Trump’s cabinet nominees kick off, they’ve turned into quite the spectacle. We’ve never paid much attention to them before, but this time, it feels like it’s time to grab some snacks and settle in for a mix of amusement and disbelief—mostly disbelief.
Let’s dive into some of the bewildering moments from Betsy DeVos’s confirmation hearing, where she was clearly out of her depth:
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Addressing Sexual Assault on Campuses
When Senator Alan Reed from Pennsylvania questioned DeVos on her stance regarding sexual assault laws on college campuses, particularly in relation to the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE), her response was disheartening. She wavered on whether to uphold existing laws, stating, “It would be premature for me to take a stance today… I look forward to ensuring that the intent of the law is recognized for both victims and the accused.” It’s a shame she’s more concerned about the rights of the accused than about the victims, especially given that she has donated around $25,000 to FIRE. -
Key Educational Concepts
Senator Lisa Grant from Minnesota asked DeVos about the merits of different assessment methods in education. Her response? “Thank you, Senator. If I’m understanding correctly…” followed by a confused explanation that confused proficiency with growth. Senator Grant was taken aback, stating, “This is a conversation that’s been happening in education for years—it surprises me that you’re not familiar with it.” While we might also struggle with these terms, we’re not aiming to become Secretary of Education. -
Protecting Children with Disabilities
Senator Julia Banks from New Hampshire, whose child has a disability, asked DeVos about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). DeVos first commented positively on Banks’s child finding the right educational setting, only to be corrected when Banks explained that her son attended the same public school as her daughter, as mandated by law. Later, when asked if all federally funded schools should adhere to IDEA, DeVos shockingly replied, “I think that’s best left to the states.” Banks pressed, “So, some states might not be supportive of kids with disabilities, and families would have to move to find better options?” DeVos repeated her stance, revealing a concerning lack of commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all. -
Gun Policies in Schools
In a particularly odd moment, Senator Chris Lane from Connecticut, representing an area that has witnessed school tragedies, asked DeVos if she believes guns should be allowed in schools. Her answer? “I think that’s best left to local and state decisions.” When pressed further, she referenced a Wyoming school’s policy regarding potential grizzly bear attacks as justification for arming schools. Seriously? Grizzly bear attacks in schools are virtually nonexistent! This response left many shaking their heads.
Dear Congress, we implore you to consider the implications of DeVos’s potential leadership before confirming her.
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In summary, Betsy DeVos’s confirmation hearing raised serious concerns about her qualifications, understanding of critical educational issues, and commitment to students’ rights. Her responses suggest a disconnect from the realities of education, making her nomination a troubling prospect for the future of American schools.