NAMM Statement on U.S. Department of Education Program Transfers

students playing music together

December 12, 2025

The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) strongly opposes the Trump Administration's decision to transfer critical U.S. Department of Education (ED) programs to other federal agencies through six new interagency agreements. This fragmentation of educational programs threatens the coordinated federal support that ensures students across America have equitable access to comprehensive music and arts education.

The recent transfers include moving Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) and Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) programs to the Department of Labor, Indian Education programs to the Department of the Interior, International Education and Foreign Language programs to the Department of State, and both CCAMPIS and Foreign Medical Accreditation to the Department of Health and Human Services — all of which undermine the unified educational framework that schools, districts and music programs depend on.

NAMM is especially concerned about the impact on programs that NAMM members have advocated for on Capitol Hill for decades. The OESE's Office of Well-Rounded Education oversees essential initiatives under the Every Student Succeeds Act including Title IV-A and the Assistance for Arts Education program. These programs are lifelines for music education, helping districts provide instruments, instruction and enrichment opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. Scattering these programs across multiple agencies jeopardizes the stability and accessibility of music education for students nationwide.

Music education is not ancillary to learning — it develops critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and discipline while enhancing academic achievement and student well-being. At a time when students need more access to quality music instruction, not less, dismantling the Department of Education's centralized support structure puts these opportunities at risk.

We are at a critical juncture that calls for continued support of music education as the nation's longest government shutdown concludes, and FY 2026 budget discussions resume. NAMM urges music education advocates to contact their members of Congress immediately to demand sustained and increased federal investments in these programs and ensure they receive strong, coherent support regardless of which agency houses them. The future of equitable music education depends on federal policy that prioritizes consistent access for every student.

Through the SupportMusic Coalition and our advocacy partnerships, NAMM remains committed to fighting for policies that support music education. We call on the music products industry, educators, parents and students to make their voices heard. 

When we invest in music education, we invest in students' futures, their creativity, and their ability to express themselves. These programs must be protected.