President Trump is set to sign an executive order on Thursday directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin the process of dismantling the Department of Education, according to two White House officials. This move comes as part of the administration’s efforts to reduce the agency’s authority and streamline its operations.
It is important to note that the Department of Education cannot be closed without the approval of Congress, as it was created by an act of Congress in 1979. However, the Trump administration has already taken steps to significantly cut the agency’s workforce and narrow its scope of authority. The executive order instructs Secretary McMahon to return authority over education to the states.
The push to shutter the Department of Education has been a longstanding goal for some Republicans, dating back to the 1980s. In recent years, this effort has gained momentum, fueled by a parents’ rights movement that emerged in response to school policies and closures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This movement, which includes prominent pro-Trump activists, has grown out of opposition to progressive education agendas that promote certain standards and inclusive policies for LGBTQ students. Activists argue that these policies infringe on parental rights and values.
The debate over education policy has been marked by hyper-partisanship for decades, with progressive teachers’ unions clashing with conservative politicians over issues like standardized testing and curriculum standards. The nation’s 50 million public school students, including 15 percent with disabilities, are caught in the middle of these debates.
While public schools are primarily funded by state and local taxes, the federal government plays a significant role in education funding. The Education Department distributes about 10 percent of total school funding according to federal law, not presidential discretion.
The decision to shutter the Department of Education is controversial and unpopular, with polls showing that roughly two-thirds of Americans oppose the idea. This move is expected to face legal challenges, as no modern president has ever unilaterally shut down a federal department.
Despite the challenges, President Trump’s administration has shown a willingness to challenge Congress’s authority in various areas. While closing the Department of Education would not revoke existing federal funding for schools, it could have far-reaching implications for education policy and programs.
In conclusion, the move to dismantle the Department of Education is a bold and contentious decision that could have significant implications for the nation’s education system. The administration’s efforts to streamline the agency and return authority to the states reflect its broader agenda of reducing federal oversight and empowering local governments.
