President Donald Trump Signs Executive Order to Shut Down the U.S. Department of Education
Freepik
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to shut down the U.S. Department of Education. The order, announced on March 19, 2025, instructs Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to begin the process of winding down the agency, shifting education oversight to individual states.
According to the White House, this move is part of a broader initiative to reduce federal oversight and return greater control over education policy to state governments. However, dismantling a federal agency entirely requires congressional approval, meaning that the timeline and full implementation of this order remain uncertain.
In recent months, the U.S. Department of Education has already seen significant changes. Reports indicate that nearly 50% of its workforce has been laid off, a development that underscores the administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce the scope of federal programs. The order is expected to affect key areas such as the management of federal student loans, the operation of educational programs, and the enforcement of civil rights protections in education.
The decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the proper role of the federal government in education. We will kee you posted with the latest.