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Statement from American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) President Mark Cannizzaro

In the first week of April, the White House released its proposed FY27 budget, outlining top line goals, selected program increases, and proposed eliminations.

“At the core of everything, we have to ground ourselves in the understanding that we’re working with children — and that leading with empathy must always come first.”
Born in San Francisco, California, Angelina Santana recalls a much gentler time for immigrant families. Today, as assistant principal at Eastlake High School in Chula Vista, California, AFSA Local 150, Angie is devoted to helping her students find the opportunities and resources they need for success, regardless of their families’ status.
For the federal government to claim that educators like school leaders are not professionals is both wrong and disrespectful.
The Trump administration has begun following through on its campaign promise to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.
How can schools become places of hospitality, community, and responsibility—spaces that nurture both knowledge and character?
“AI is on the brink of reshaping our world and economy,” the federation said in announcing the plan. “It’s too important to leave solely in the hands of Big Tech CEOs and billionaires.”
On this Veterans Day and every day, we thank you for your service to our country and to our students. Your example reminds us that leadership is not just about authority; it is about service, sacrifice, and the pursuit of something greater than ourselves.