Trump’s Bold Move: Plans to Dismantle the Department of Education

In a dramatic shift for American education, former President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on March 20, 2025, aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. This move has sparked intense debate, as it seeks to return education authority to individual states, marking a significant step in Trump’s long-standing campaign to reduce federal oversight in education.

The executive order, expected to be signed on Thursday, directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to oversee the closure of the department. McMahon, a key figure in this initiative, has been tasked with ensuring the “uninterrupted delivery” of essential services while cutting back on what Trump calls “regulations and paperwork” that distract from teaching. Notably, federal funding for critical programs like student loans, support for students with disabilities, and low-income schools will remain untouched. However, funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs is set to be eliminated.

This decision is not without controversy. The Department of Education was established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, and its elimination would require congressional approval, as its functions are enshrined in federal law. During her Senate confirmation hearing, McMahon acknowledged this hurdle, stating that dismantling the department would need legislative action. Despite this, Trump has pushed forward, calling the department a “big con job” and accusing it of misusing taxpayer dollars and indoctrinating students.

The announcement has already faced legal challenges. A coalition of 21 Democratic attorneys general has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that McMahon lacks the authority to eliminate programs created by statute. This legal battle underscores the high stakes of Trump’s plan and the deep political divisions surrounding it.

Earlier in March 2025, the department began downsizing its workforce, offering voluntary resignation packages to employees. Approximately 600 of its 4,000 employees accepted the offer, signaling the beginning of a broader restructuring effort. A draft executive order from February 2025 hinted at Trump’s intent to return the department’s “main functions” to the states, a vision now coming to fruition.

For many, this move represents a return to local control over education, a principle long championed by conservatives. However, critics argue that it could lead to disparities in educational quality and access across states. McMahon’s role will be pivotal in navigating these challenges, as she works to create a plan that brings federal funds closer to states, localities, and students.

As the nation watches this unfolding story, the implications of Trump’s executive order are far-reaching. Whether it’s seen as a bold step toward decentralization or a risky dismantling of a vital institution, one thing is clear: the future of American education is at a crossroads.

What do you think about this move? Should education policy be left to the states, or does the federal government play a crucial role in ensuring equity and consistency? Share your thoughts in the comments below.