Federal workers are being hit with more cuts — this time targeting the Office of Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education.Several Chicago-based workers were let go in the cut to the office Thursday.

At least 50 staffers were fired in Chicago or pushed out, including the entire Office for Civil Rights. The layoffs are part of a dramatic downsizing directed by the president.

Douglas Kiker, a contestant on “American Idol” Season 18 who memorably moved series judge Katy Perry to tears with his audition performance, has died. He was 32 years old. Kiker’s sisters, Angela Evans and Donna Kiker Carrillos-Ramirez, confirmed the news on Facebook Wednesday evening. A cause of death was not disclosed. “It is with a …

With nearly half of the federal employees from the U.S. Department of Education laid off this week and the Trump administration vowing to close the department altogether, there are potential impacts to Illinois cities and schools.

Concern about the funds is growing now that staffing at the agency has been cut by nearly 50% — from 4,133 to 2,183.

The Office of Civil Rights is tasked with making sure students’ liberties are upheld at school. As Sabrina Franza reports, the concern is now that those voices will not be heard.