US News: President Trump Signs Order To ‘Eliminate’ Department Of Education | WION World DNA

In a historic move, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on March 20, 2025, aiming to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. This decision seeks to transfer control over educational policies and funding from the federal government back to state and local authorities, aligning with the administration's goal to reduce federal oversight in favor of localized governance.

Rationale Behind the Executive Order

President Trump criticized the Department of Education for its perceived inefficiencies and the financial burden it imposes since its establishment in 1979. He argued that returning educational control to states and local communities would enhance accountability and better serve the diverse needs of students across the country. Trump stated, "It sounds strange, doesn't it? Department of Education, we're going to eliminate it."

 

Immediate Actions and Their Implications

Following the executive order, Education Secretary Linda McMahon has initiated steps to significantly reduce the department's operations. This includes substantial staff layoffs, with reports indicating that nearly half of the department's 4,400 employees have been let go. The majority of these cuts affect the Federal Student Aid office and the Office for Civil Rights, raising concerns about the administration of student loans and protections against discrimination.

 

Essential educational programs, such as student loans, Pell Grants, and Title I funding, are slated to continue but will be managed by other federal agencies. However, the logistics of reallocating these responsibilities are complex and may lead to disruptions in services.

 

Legal and Political Challenges

The complete dissolution of the Department of Education requires congressional approval, as its establishment and functions are enshrined in federal law. Given the current political landscape, securing such approval poses significant challenges. Democratic leaders have expressed strong opposition, warning that the move could exacerbate educational inequities and undermine protections for vulnerable student populations. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have criticized the plan, urging the reinstatement of laid-off employees and cautioning against the potential negative impacts on student services.

 

Civil rights organizations, including the NAACP, have condemned the executive order, arguing that it threatens fundamental democratic functions and could disproportionately harm students of color and those from low-income backgrounds.

 

Potential Consequences for the Education System

The proposed dismantling of the Department of Education carries significant implications for the U.S. education system. While curricula are primarily determined at the state and local levels, the department plays a crucial role in distributing federal funds, enforcing civil rights laws in education, and ensuring equitable access to quality education. Eliminating the department could lead to disruptions in funding, particularly for programs serving disadvantaged communities, and may create logistical challenges in the administration of federal educational programs.

 

Public and Professional Reactions

The executive order has elicited a range of reactions from various stakeholders. Educators and school administrators have expressed concern about the potential loss of federal support and guidance, fearing that state and local governments may struggle to manage the additional responsibilities without adequate resources. Parents and students have also voiced apprehension, particularly regarding the future of financial aid and protections against discrimination.

In contrast, proponents argue that the move restores local control over education and reduces bureaucratic overhead, potentially leading to more tailored and effective educational policies. They contend that states are better positioned to address the unique needs of their student populations without federal intervention.

Looking Ahead

As the executive order initiates a profound transformation of the U.S. education system, its ultimate success or failure will depend on the outcomes of ongoing legal battles, legislative negotiations, and the practical challenges of restructuring educational governance. The coming months are likely to be pivotal in determining the future landscape of American education.