Donald Trump Moves to Shut Down Education Department: What It Means for U.S. Schools

Editor March 6, 2025Last Updated: March 6, 2025

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By DAYO ADESULU

President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order as early as Thursday, instructing newly confirmed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin the process of dismantling the U.S. Department of Education, according to reports from multiple media outlets.

The Donald Trump Education Department shutdown initiative aligns with the former president’s long-standing pledge to decentralize education and transfer decision-making authority to state governments. The Wall Street Journal, citing a draft of the executive order, reported Wednesday that McMahon has been directed to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department” within the bounds of the law.

Donald Trump’s Plan to Decentralize Education

The move to eliminate the Education Department is not entirely new. Donald Trump, 78, made it a central part of his campaign promises, arguing that education policies should be controlled at the state and local levels rather than by federal agencies.

Established in 1979 under former President Jimmy Carter, the U.S. Department of Education plays a significant role in setting nationwide education policies, allocating federal funding, and enforcing civil rights laws in schools. However, conservative lawmakers and education reform advocates have long criticized it as an example of excessive federal overreach.

Although the department cannot be completely abolished without congressional approval—requiring at least 60 votes in the Senate— Donald Trump’s administration could significantly weaken its influence by cutting funding, reducing staff, and redistributing responsibilities to other agencies.

Opposition to the Education Department Shutdown

The proposal to dismantle the Education Department has sparked immediate backlash from Democratic lawmakers, teachers’ unions, and parents’ advocacy groups, who see the move as an attack on public education.

“Defunding and dismantling the Education Department would create chaos in our schools and take away vital support from millions of students, especially those from low-income families,” said Lily Garcia, president of the National Education Association (NEA).

Additionally, legal experts have raised concerns about whether Donald Trump’s executive action can legally bypass congressional authority. The Washington Post reported that McMahon and other officials are considering shifting some of the department’s responsibilities to other federal agencies, though this move could lead to legal challenges.

Linda McMahon’s Role in the Education Overhaul

Linda McMahon, a 76-year-old businesswoman and former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), was confirmed as Education Secretary last month. During her Senate confirmation hearing, she criticized the centralization of power in Washington and expressed strong support for school choice and education freedom.

“The excessive consolidation of power in the federal government is damaging our education system,” McMahon said. “The remedy? Fund education freedom, not bureaucracy.”

While McMahon did not explicitly confirm whether she supports abolishing the department, her past statements indicate alignment with Trump’s push for decentralization. Education policy analysts expect her tenure to focus on expanding charter schools and school voucher programs while reducing the federal government’s regulatory role.

What Happens Next?

If the Donald Trump Education Department shutdown proceeds as planned, it could have significant implications for federal education programs, including student loan administration, Pell Grants, and Title IX protections for students.

Some of the department’s core functions could be transferred to other government agencies. For example:

The administration of federal student loans could move to the Treasury Department.
Special education programs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) might be managed by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Title IX enforcement, which addresses gender discrimination in schools, could be overseen by the Department of Justice.

Still, analysts warn that such a transition could lead to confusion and disruptions for schools, students, and educators.

Public Reaction and Future Implications

Public opinion on Donald Trump’s plan remains divided. Supporters argue that eliminating the Department of Education would reduce bureaucracy, save taxpayer money, and allow states greater flexibility in education policies.

“Education should be controlled by parents and local communities, not Washington bureaucrats,” said Mark Levin, a conservative commentator. “This is a long-overdue reform.”

On the other hand, critics say the move could harm vulnerable students who rely on federal programs for funding and protections.

“If this happens, it will be devastating for students with disabilities, low-income families, and anyone who depends on federal education assistance,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).

Will Congress Block Trump’s Plan?

Despite Donald Trump’s determination, completely shutting down the Education Department requires congressional approval. With Democrats controlling the Senate and strong bipartisan support for federal education funding, the plan faces significant hurdles.

Even some Republicans have expressed reservations about eliminating the department entirely. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) stated that while she supports education reform, she believes federal oversight is necessary to ensure equal opportunities for all students.

For now, Donald Trump’s executive order will likely set the stage for a broader debate on the future of federal involvement in education. As 2025 unfolds, the battle over the Donald Trump Education Department shutdown is expected to be one of the most contentious policy fights in Washington.

Conclusion

Donald Trump’s push to dismantle the Education Department is a bold move that could reshape America’s education system. While his administration can significantly reduce the department’s influence, full abolition remains uncertain without congressional backing. As legal and political battles loom, the future of federal education policy hangs in the balance.