On March 20, 2025, President Donald Trump is poised to sign an executive order initiating the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, fulfilling a significant campaign promise to reduce federal oversight in education. This move aims to transfer educational authority back to individual states, a shift proponents argue will empower local communities and parents.
The Department of Education, established in 1979, oversees federal educational funding, policies, and enforcement of federal educational laws. As of 2023, it managed a budget of $274 billion, supporting programs for children with disabilities, early childhood education, and Pell Grants, among others.
The department also administers substantial funding streams to assist schools in educating the nation’s most vulnerable students, including those living in poverty and children with disabilities.
In the lead-up to this executive order, the Department has experienced significant workforce reductions. On March 12, 2025, it was reported that approximately 50% of the Department’s staff had been laid off or accepted voluntary separation incentives. These layoffs have notably impacted offices responsible for research, data, and statistics, including the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). Consequently, over 160 educational research contracts and grants, valued at $900 million, have been canceled, nullifying years of work and federal investment.
The executive order directs Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to develop a plan for the Department’s closure, ensuring the transition of programs and services to state control while maintaining essential services during the process. However, the complete dissolution of the Department requires congressional approval, presenting potential legal and political challenges. The current Republican majority in the Senate lacks the 60 votes necessary to pass such legislation, making bipartisan support essential yet uncertain.
Critics of the plan express concerns about the potential negative impact on educational standards and equity. The Department plays a crucial role in enforcing civil rights protections and addressing educational disparities. Its elimination could disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including students with disabilities, low-income families, and those experiencing homelessness. The National Education Association (NEA), representing millions of educators, warns that dismantling the Department could be catastrophic for students in low-income communities who rely on federal support and services.
Legal opposition is also mounting. A coalition of Democratic state attorneys general and the NAACP plans to challenge the executive order, arguing that it is unconstitutional and jeopardizes the education of children who depend on federal support, particularly in underserved communities. They contend that the abrupt closure of the Department could disrupt aid to numerous K-12 schools and higher education institutions.
Advocates for the Department’s dissolution argue that returning control to states will foster innovation and responsiveness to local needs, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes. They believe that reducing federal oversight will empower parents and communities to make decisions that best suit their students.
The debate over the Department of Education’s future underscores a broader national conversation about the role of federal versus state control in public education. As the administration moves forward with its plan, the coming months will likely see intense discussions and legal battles that could reshape the landscape of American education.
