Copyright Baltimore News
Across the country, college students are having conversations about education, freedom, and who they think should really be shaping the future of America's classrooms. Erika Donalds, who is the founder of Optima-Ed, as well as the chair of education opportunity of , is doing a tour of the U.S. to start those conversations. After political activist Charlie Kirk was assassinated on September 10, Donalds said Turning Point USA received more than 120,000 inquiries from students, who she described as eager to learn more about the future of America, federal government, state government, and how they can get involved and shape the future. I jumped in, as have hundreds of other influencers -- young and old -- to get on these college campuses, engage with these students, and make sure we show them how to be involved,” Donald’s told The National News Desk’s Jan Jeffcoat during a one-on-one interview on Tuesday. Donalds said students are interested in the topic, “Ending the Department of Education” because the education system has "completely failed them." They are the COVID generation, where the government took away their ability to celebrate homecoming, prom, graduation, and actually be able to learn in an environment that suits them,” she said. “So, they understand that government and the overreach of government can really affect their education. We know that the federal government has failed to actually improve education outcomes. These students know that in their higher education the federal government hasn’t even allowed them to apply for the . It’s been so dysfunctional. So, they are very eager to hear solutions.” For more, watch the video player above or visit for Jeffcoat's full interview with Donalds.
