Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order this week to begin dismantling the U.S.
Department of Education (DOE), a move that aligns with his broader agenda of reducing federal government influence and rolling back progressive education policies.
However, while the executive order marks an initial step, congressional approval will be necessary to fully eliminate the department.
Lawmakers must also assess federal funding programs traditionally supported by Democratic-leaning states and teachers’ unions.
Origins of the DOE and Its Expansion
The DOE was established in 1980 following a political agreement between then-presidential candidate Jimmy Carter and the National Education Association (NEA).
In exchange for the NEA’s endorsement, Carter pledged to create a standalone education department—an initiative that came to fruition after his election victory.
Although the department has expanded over the decades, critics argue it has failed to improve student performance. Even Albert Shanker, former president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), once expressed concerns that the push for a federal education department was based on misconceptions about its potential impact.
He also warned about the risks of federal overreach in local education systems.
Concerns Over Bureaucracy and Policy Mandates
Critics argue that the DOE has grown into a bureaucratic entity employing over 4,400 officials and is responsible for imposing various regulations on local schools.
They claim these mandates include Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies, which some conservatives believe favor teachers’ unions and left-leaning agendas.
Additionally, federal education funding has contributed to a spike in college tuition costs and expanding school administrative expenses. Rather than directly benefiting students, these funds have increased compliance costs for schools that must adhere to DOE guidelines.
Trump’s Proposed Reforms
While Trump’s executive order initiates the process of dismantling the DOE, Congress must pass legislation to fully repeal its founding statutes.
He also advocates for education funding reforms, including school vouchers allowing parents to choose their children’s schools, including private institutions.
As part of the proposal, Trump has suggested tying federal aid to states’ willingness to expand private education options, a move aimed at increasing competition within the education system. Supporters argue that school choice policies could enhance educational quality and cost efficiency.
Debate Over the Future of Federal Education Policy
Opponents, including teachers’ unions and progressive policymakers, argue that Trump’s approach could undermine public education. However, his supporters challenge critics to provide evidence that the DOE has meaningfully improved student outcomes.
They also point to the DOE’s controversial policies, including its Diversity & Inclusion Council, which they claim has pushed ideological mandates rather than focusing on academic success. Some conservatives further highlight historical concerns, noting that education centralization was once a priority of the Ku Klux Klan in the 1920s.
Looking Ahead
As Trump’s proposal moves forward, the debate over federal involvement in education is expected to intensify. Supporters argue that competition and parental choice remain the most effective ways to enhance student performance and maximize education spending.
Many conservatives believe that state and local governments and parents should have the most significant influence over education policy, rather than federal bureaucrats in Washington.
