Trump Administration Considers Eliminating Department of Education: A Deep Dive

Reports have surfaced indicating that a preliminary executive order targeting the elimination of the Department of Education has been drafted for President Donald Trump. This development, first reported by USA TODAY, underscores Trump’s long-standing ambition to dismantle the federal agency, a goal he has championed since before his administration initiated sweeping reductions in the federal workforce through initiatives spearheaded by Elon Musk and the newly established Department of Government Efficiency.

However, the feasibility of completely dismantling the Department of Education hinges on Congressional approval. Education Secretary Linda McMahon, a billionaire GOP donor and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), has publicly acknowledged the necessity of Congressional cooperation to effect such a significant change.

The White House has issued a statement indicating that no executive order related to the Department of Education will be signed on Thursday. However, several news outlets have suggested that the order could potentially be signed later this week, adding an air of uncertainty and anticipation to the situation.

This news prompts critical questions about the purpose and function of the Department of Education and the potential ramifications of its dismantling. Understanding these aspects is essential for informed discussion and evaluation of the proposed executive order.

The Role and Responsibilities of the Department of Education

While K-12 curricula are primarily governed by local authorities, the Department of Education plays a crucial supporting role in K-12 education through the allocation of federal funding. The agency also exercises oversight over colleges and universities to ensure compliance with legal requirements and the administration of federal student aid programs.

The Department of Education’s core responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities, as outlined on its official website. Originally established in 1867, the department’s initial mandate was to gather data on schools to facilitate the development of effective school systems across the nation. Over time, particularly during World War II and the Civil Rights movements of the 1960s and 1970s, the agency’s mission evolved and expanded to address new challenges and priorities.

In 1980, Congress elevated the Department to Cabinet-level status, signifying its growing importance and influence in the national education landscape. Despite the increasing federal involvement in education, the Department’s overarching mission has remained consistent: "to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access."

Financial Resources and Allocation

According to USA Spending, the Department of Education received $241.66 billion in budgetary resources for the 2024 fiscal year. This figure represents approximately 2% of the entire federal budget.

The allocated funding is distributed across 10 subcomponents within the agency. However, the vast majority of the budget is channeled to the Office of Federal Student Aid, which received $179.65 billion in FY 2024. This allocation highlights the Department’s significant role in providing financial assistance to students pursuing higher education.

Staffing and Recent Workforce Reductions

While the Department of Education boasts a substantial discretionary spending budget, it maintains the smallest staff among the 15 Cabinet agencies, as stated on its website. However, it is important to note that this information was last updated prior to the recent widespread cuts to the federal workforce. Multiple reports indicate that dozens of Education Department employees have been placed on leave as part of these workforce reduction efforts.

Potential Consequences of Dismantling the Department of Education

The potential dismantling of the Department of Education raises concerns about the future of federal involvement in education and the potential consequences for students, schools, and the nation as a whole.

• Impact on Federal Funding: Eliminating the Department could disrupt the flow of federal funding to schools and students. This could have particularly detrimental effects on low-income schools and students who rely on federal aid for access to education.

• Changes in Regulatory Oversight: The Department of Education plays a critical role in ensuring legal compliance and accountability in colleges and universities. Dismantling the agency could weaken this oversight, potentially leading to abuses or a decline in educational quality.

• Impact on Student Aid Programs: The Office of Federal Student Aid, which receives the bulk of the Department’s funding, administers critical student loan and grant programs. Eliminating the Department could disrupt these programs, making it more difficult for students to afford higher education.

• Shift in Educational Priorities: The dismantling of the Department of Education could signal a shift in national educational priorities. This could lead to a greater emphasis on local control and a reduced role for the federal government in shaping educational policy.

Looking Ahead

The potential elimination of the Department of Education is a significant policy development with far-reaching implications. It is essential to closely monitor the situation as it unfolds and to consider the potential consequences for students, schools, and the future of education in the United States.

The actions of President Trump and the response from Congress will ultimately determine the fate of the Department of Education and the direction of federal involvement in education. It is crucial for citizens to engage in informed discussions and to advocate for policies that promote educational excellence and equal access for all.

Contributing Reporters: Zachary Schermele, Joey Garrison

Reporter: Kinsey Crowley (USA TODAY, [email protected], @kinseycrowley on X and TikTok)