U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order instructing the Secretary of Education to begin the process of shutting down the Department of Education. In a statement regarding the decision, Trump declared, "The Department of Education is not benefiting our country. We want to return control of education to the states."
Targeting Federal Agencies Once Again
Since taking office on January 20, Trump has repeatedly criticized several federal agencies for inefficiency. Now, he has set his sights on the U.S. Department of Education, aiming to completely dismantle it. Established in 1980, the department has long been a point of contention for conservatives, who argue that education should be primarily managed by state governments rather than federal authorities.
A statement from the White House emphasized that federal programs and funding interventions have harmed students, teachers, and families. The statement read:
"The federal government's attempt to control the American education system through funding and bureaucracy has clearly had negative effects on students, teachers, and parents."
Congressional Approval Required
Trump’s executive order does not immediately eliminate the department. Instead, Congress must approve any legislative changes to officially dissolve the agency. While the full impact of this order remains uncertain, White House sources have indicated that key functions such as student loans and grants will remain operational within the department for the foreseeable future.
Backlash from Educators and Lawmakers
The decision to dismantle the Department of Education has sparked strong opposition from educators, policymakers, and Democratic lawmakers.
Alisha Thomas Searcy, Southern Regional Director of Education Reform Now, warned that eliminating the department would disproportionately affect vulnerable student populations:
"Shutting down the Department of Education will have devastating consequences for students, teachers, and families. Our biggest concern is the impact on low-income and disabled students who rely on federal support."
Since his first term in office, Trump has been vocal about his desire to eliminate the Department of Education. While this move is seen as a significant step toward decentralizing education policy, it raises questions about the future of the American education system and how it will adapt without federal oversight.