Trump Takes Bold Step: Executive Order Shuts Down Department of Education

The 19th has reported that President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday aimed at dismantling the Department of Education. The announcement came during an education event at the White House, where Trump directed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to initiate steps to close the department and return educational authority to individual states.

Trump has long expressed his intention to eliminate the federal agency, a goal aligned with many conservative ideals. However, he requires congressional approval to proceed, as Congress established the department in 1979. Past attempts to alter the structure of federal agencies have encountered legal challenges, and this initiative is also expected to face potential lawsuits.

The executive order emphasizes that the dismantling of the department should not interrupt services Americans rely on, including crucial funding for economically disadvantaged students and those with disabilities, as well as college financial aid.

Supporters of the move argue it would give states more control over education, while critics contend that it could lead to significant setbacks, particularly for students needing special assistance. Trump’s critics assert that his actual motive is to shift towards privatized education, a change that they claim would disproportionately benefit wealthier families.

This executive order follows a recent announcement from the Department of Education, which indicated plans to cut nearly half of its workforce, including significant layoffs in the Office of Federal Student Aid and the Office for Civil Rights. Advocates are concerned that these reductions will compromise protections against discrimination and reduce access to education.

Rebecca Yates, an attorney in the Office for Civil Rights, revealed she had received notice of the elimination of her position. She highlighted the importance of federal civil rights laws, such as Title IX and Title VI, which safeguard against sex and racial discrimination, respectively.

Concerns about the impact on students with disabilities were echoed by Heather Schwindt, who noted that closing the Department of Education could jeopardize funding related to the Individual Disabilities Education Act.

Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP, condemned the executive order as unconstitutional, warning that it undermines foundational democratic principles. He emphasized the negative consequences for students reliant on federal funding, particularly in underprivileged areas.

Polls indicate that a majority of voters oppose closing the Department of Education, with recent data showing 48 percent of respondents strongly against such a move. This sentiment could present a political challenge for Trump as he seeks to reshape the education landscape.

The Student Borrower Protection Center, in collaboration with legal representatives, has filed a lawsuit against the Department of Education regarding its management of the student loan system. The lawsuit claims mishandling of affordable payment options, adversely affecting many borrowers, including public service workers.

As developments unfold, the implications for students and educational equity remain a focal point of contention.