Trump’s Executive Action Targets Closure of the Department of Education
In an anticipated move, President Trump is expected to sign an executive order as soon as Thursday, directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take necessary actions towards closing the Department of Education. This executive action, as reported by NPR, has been in discussion since early February following the administration’s announcement of their plans.
Context of the Executive Action
The executive order aligns with McMahon’s earlier Senate confirmation, during which she indicated her commitment to unwinding the federal education agency, which has historically faced scrutiny over its effectiveness. The Senate granted her confirmation earlier this week, with unified opposition from Democrats.
Legal Challenges and Justifications
The draft order specifies that McMahon must act “to the maximum extent appropriate and permitted by law,” highlighting the legal hurdles she may face due to the department’s establishment by Congress. Many functions of the Department of Education are protected by statute, and significant changes would require bipartisan support in Congress, which is currently not guaranteed.
Rationale for Department Closure
The administration justifies this drastic step by asserting that the Department of Education has expended over $1 trillion since its inception in 1979 without substantial improvements in student outcomes, particularly in reading and mathematics. Reports from credible sources like The Nation’s Report Card indicate stagnant reading scores and challenges in recovery from learning disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Impact on Federal Education Funding
While federal funding constitutes roughly 10% of public school financing, primarily aimed at supporting low-income communities and students with disabilities, McMahon maintains that her plans will not eliminate crucial programs like Title I and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). However, she suggests that the administration might consider reallocating the management of such programs to different federal entities.
Cuts and Reforms in the Department
In anticipation of the executive order, the Department of Education has already undergone cuts and staff reductions, notably in the Institute of Education Sciences (IES), which plays a vital role in educational research and data dissemination. Several initiatives previously funded by the department, particularly those focusing on effective teaching and preparing students with disabilities for post-secondary life, have been cancelled.
Public Opinion and Future Prospects
Despite previous efforts by House Republicans to dismantle the department, such attempts have been met with resistance. A recent NPR/PBS News/Marist poll indicated that approximately 63% of Americans oppose abolishing the Department of Education, underscoring a significant public apprehension regarding education reforms.
Conclusion
Moving forward, the future of the Department of Education remains uncertain amid shifting political landscapes and ongoing debates about the efficacy of federal involvement in education. McMahon’s commitment to executing this transformative plan will be closely monitored by both supporters and opponents alike.
