Trump Expected To Sign Order To Shut Down Department Of Education

President Donald Trump is poised to sign an executive order today, March 20, 2025, initiating the process to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. This action aligns with his campaign commitment to reduce federal oversight in education and delegate authority back to individual states.

The executive order instructs Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to oversee the department’s closure, ensuring that the transition maintains the effective and uninterrupted delivery of services, programs, and benefits that Americans depend on.

Despite this directive, fully abolishing the Department of Education cannot occur without congressional approval, as the department was established by an act of Congress in 1979. Achieving this would require a 60-vote majority in the Senate, a challenging prospect given the current political landscape.

The administration has already initiated significant changes within the department, including a 50% reduction in staff. While the executive order aims to transfer educational authority to the states, it emphasizes that essential functions, such as the management of student loans, Pell Grants, and Title I funding, will continue under federal oversight to prevent disruptions in services.

This move has sparked considerable debate. Proponents argue that it will reduce bureaucratic influence and enhance local control over education. Conversely, critics express concerns about potential negative impacts on school funding, college financial aid, and special education services. The National Education Association, representing millions of educators, warns that dismantling the department could adversely affect students in low-income communities who rely on federal support.

In summary, while President Trump’s executive order represents a significant step toward restructuring federal involvement in education, the complete dissolution of the Department of Education remains uncertain, contingent upon legislative action and ongoing public discourse.

Trump Expected To Sign Order To Shut Down Department Of Education