Trump’s Executive Action Targets Department of Education Closure

Potential Closure of Education Department Sparks Debate

In a surprising move, President Trump is poised to initiate an executive order that could lead to the closure of the U.S. Department of Education. Education Secretary Linda McMahon is set to spearhead this significant shift, as indicated in a draft order obtained by NPR. The directive calls for her to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education.”

This development follows the administration’s earlier announcement in February, where the White House hinted at substantial cuts to the department’s operations, although the formal action awaited McMahon’s full confirmation by the Senate. Her confirmation came on Monday, despite uniform opposition from Democrats who are wary of her commitment to dismantling the department.

However, the executive order, expected soon, acknowledges the legal challenges of such a move. The department was established by Congress, and any substantial changes would necessitate congressional approval, likely requiring bipartisan support to surpass potential Democratic filibusters.

First reported by The Wall Street Journal, the executive action argues that since its inception in 1979, the Department of Education has not effectively improved student reading and mathematics scores, despite expenditures exceeding $1 trillion.

According to The Nation’s Report Card, while math scores showed improvement over the years, reading scores have largely stagnated from 1992 to 2019. The pandemic further exacerbated educational challenges, leaving significant gaps in student achievement.

Critics of the department’s closure cite the vital role federal funding plays, constituting about 10% of public school budgets, primarily aiding low-income communities and children with disabilities. By law, the department cannot dictate curriculum but can enforce federal civil rights laws for students.

Department’s Future and Funding Concerns

The proposed executive action follows recent reductions in the department’s capabilities, including cuts to the Institute of Education Sciences and layoffs of staff involved with diversity programs. These moves have raised questions about the ongoing support for key educational initiatives.

Secretary McMahon, addressing the Senate, assured that although the department might be dissolved, funding for crucial programs like Title I and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act would remain. She suggested that these funds could be more effectively managed by other government entities.

The potential closure of the department, which employs approximately 4,200 individuals, faces opposition not only from Democrats but also from some Republicans who support its statutory responsibilities. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll revealed that 63% of Americans oppose shutting down the department, highlighting significant public interest in its continuation.