Trump Administration Moves to Dismantle Education Department
In a controversial push to reduce federal oversight, the Trump administration will announce sweeping steps to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education (ED). According to White House sources, the plan aims to return control of education policy to states and local districts, marking a major shift in how schools are governed.
A Conservative Priority Decades in the Making
The push to eliminate the Education Department has been a long-standing Republican goal. Established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, the ED has faced criticism from conservatives who argue that education should be managed locally. President Ronald Reagan attempted to abolish it in the 1980s, and GOP platforms have consistently called for its dissolution.
Now, with the Trump administration’s final months underway, officials are preparing an executive order to downsize the department’s functions. While full abolition would require Congressional approval—unlikely with a Democratic-controlled House—key responsibilities may be shifted to other agencies or eliminated.
Key Changes Under the Proposal
The plan could significantly reshape education policy, affecting students, teachers, and schools nationwide. Major expected changes include:
1. Student Loan Oversight Shifted to Treasury
The Federal Student Aid office, which oversees $1.5 trillion in loans, may move to the Treasury Department. Critics fear this could reduce borrower protections.
2. End of Federal Curriculum Influence
Programs like Common Core could be rolled back, giving states full authority over academic standards.
3. Weakened Civil Rights Enforcement
The ED’s Office for Civil Rights, which handles discrimination complaints, may see reduced power, raising equity concerns.
4. Expansion of School Choice Programs
The plan is expected to boost funding for vouchers and charter schools, redirecting resources from traditional public schools.
Supporters and Critics Clash Over the Plan
Reactions have been swift and polarized:
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Supporters argue local control empowers parents and cuts bureaucracy.
“The federal government shouldn’t dictate education,” said Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY). -
Opponents warn of widening inequities.
“This harms public schools and vulnerable students,” said NEA President Lily Eskelsen García.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) called the move “reckless and damaging to equal education.”
Legal Challenges and Implementation Barriers
While executive actions can weaken the ED, abolishing it entirely would require Congress—a long shot unless Republicans win the House and Senate. Legal battles are expected, especially if civil rights protections are scaled back.
Additionally, transferring critical functions like student aid and special education funding could disrupt millions of students and families.
What Comes Next?
As the White House finalizes its plan, states will face critical decisions:
- Republican-led states may embrace the shift.
- Democratic states could challenge it in court or seek alternative funding.
The debate over federal education control will remain a flashpoint, with major implications for U.S. schools.
Stay updated with NextMinuteNews for the latest developments.
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