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Trump Signs Order to Dismantle U.S. Department of Education
President Trump signs an executive order to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, shifting school policy control to states. Conservatives cheer, but education advocates worry.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-21
Trump Signs Order to Dismantle U.S. Department of Education

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday aiming to dismantle the Department of Education, transferring school policy control to individual states. The move, fulfilling a key campaign promise, has been widely celebrated by conservatives but has raised concerns among education advocates.

The executive order follows the department’s recent decision to lay off nearly half of its staff, signaling a significant shift in federal education policy. Trump, who has been in office for about two months, has made government restructuring a priority, aligning with his broader agenda to reduce federal bureaucracy.

At the White House signing event, Trump was joined by students, teachers, parents, and state governors who support the plan, highlighting its appeal among Republican voters and his “Make America Great Again” movement.

Impact on U.S. Education Policy

The Department of Education oversees approximately 100,000 public schools and 34,000 private schools across the country. While 85% of public school funding comes from state and local governments, the federal agency provides grants for needy schools, funds arts programs, and supports special education teachers.

With Trump’s executive order, decisions on funding, curriculum, and policy would largely shift to state governments. The move aligns with conservative views favoring school choice and reduced federal intervention but raises concerns about funding for disadvantaged schools.

Challenges Ahead

Despite signing the order, fully dismantling the Department of Education would require congressional approval. While Republicans control both the House and Senate, passing such legislation would require Democratic support to secure the necessary 60 votes in the Senate—a challenging prospect.

Trump has previously stated that he wants Education Secretary Linda McMahon to phase out her own department. However, without congressional backing, the department’s complete dissolution remains uncertain.

The announcement comes amid ongoing political divisions over education policy, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. While some see Trump’s move as a victory for state autonomy, others fear it could weaken federal support for schools and students in need.

As the debate unfolds, the future of federal education oversight remains a contentious issue, with potential long-term consequences for schools, teachers, and students nationwide.
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EducationReform

TrumpExecutiveOrder

SchoolPolicy

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