January 30, 2025 Dear AERA Members, We have been closely monitoring and analyzing the directives of the new presidential administration that could impact the work of education researchers and the nation’s entire scientific enterprise. While the Office of Management and Budget order issued January 27 temporarily freezing many federal grants was rescinded yesterday, other administration actions have also rightfully caused significant concerns among the scientific community. These include executive orders that intend to eliminate the systematic collection of vital demographic data and investment in programs that expand educational and workforce opportunities in science, technology, and related fields. We understand that there is a significant amount of confusion and apprehension about the administration’s actions. AERA is strongly committed to protecting the integrity of education research and data and is actively working with other associations, foundations, higher education institutions (including our CURI deans), and government officials to assess and develop strategies to support and foster the science and scholarship in which our field and other disciplines are engaged. We are here to support our members, from graduate students and early career scholars to established researchers, and will continue to monitor, act, and promote the education research community in any way we can. We ask those with immediate threats or concerns about their federal research, federal research training support, or federal data sets to complete a brief form at https://forms.gle/JnsrGAmhXyJYPeAGA. AERA remains steadfast in its mission and in its commitment to advocate for the field of education research. We encourage our members to stay vigilant in these challenging times and continue their important work for the benefit of students, educators, families, communities, and the public good. Sincerely, |
