President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, a move that has sparked widespread debate. While the order does not immediately abolish the department—Congressional approval is required for that—it sets the stage for significant changes in federal education oversight.
The Department of Education, established in 1979, has long been a target for conservative critics who argue that education should be managed at the state level. Trump echoed these sentiments, stating that the department has become a “bloated bureaucracy” that fails to deliver results. He pointed to declining test scores as evidence of its inefficiency. For instance, the most recent National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed troubling trends: average reading scores for fourth and eighth graders have dropped significantly, with a third of eighth graders scoring below basic levels in reading2.
Financially, the department’s budget has been substantial. In 2024, it managed approximately $200 billion, with a significant portion allocated to grants and loans for higher education and funding for K-12 schools, particularly in low-income areas. Despite this investment, critics argue that the return on this spending has been lackluster, citing stagnant or declining student performance in key areas like math and reading4.
Trump’s executive order directs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin transferring the department’s essential functions, such as Pell Grants and Title I funding, to other federal agencies. However, the move has raised concerns about the future of federal education programs and the potential for increased disparities among states.
While supporters see this as a step toward reducing federal overreach and empowering states, opponents warn of chaos and inequities in education funding and policy. The debate underscores the complexities of balancing federal and state roles in shaping the nation’s educational landscape.
