President Donald Trump will sign an executive order to close the Department of Education. The plan for the Education Department to shut down has been confirmed by the White House on Thursday. Education Secretary Linda McMahon will lead the process. The goal is to give education power back to the states. Trump made this promise during his campaign. He believes local governments should decide on education policies. The executive order will set the plan in motion.
Government Will Ensure a Smooth Transition for Programs
The executive order states that education services and programs will continue. However, it is unclear how the administration will handle this transition as the Education Department shuts down. Some key programs may move to other government agencies. The White House wants to make sure students do not lose support. The administration is reviewing options to relocate essential programs. More details will come as plans develop.
Republican Governors Will Attend the Signing Ceremony
Several Republican governors will be present when Trump signs the order. This includes Ron DeSantis of Florida, Glenn Youngkin of Virginia, Greg Abbott of Texas, and Mike DeWine of Ohio. A White House official confirmed their attendance. These governors support reducing federal control over education. They believe states should have more authority in making education decisions. Especially now that the Education Department is to shut down.
Department of Education Has Already Started Downsizing
The Department of Education began cutting staff last week. Nearly half of its employees have already been laid off. The agency is shrinking through job cuts, retirements, and resignations as the Education Department prepares to shut down. Trump wants to continue reducing staff. He believes fewer people are needed at the federal level. His goal is to eliminate the department entirely and shift responsibility to state governments.
Trump Believes Full Closure of the Agency Will Happen
Trump expects the Department of Education to shut down completely. He spoke about this on “Full Measure” with Sharyl Attkisson. In addition he said only a small team would remain to ensure schools still teach reading, writing, and math. He believes states can handle education better than the federal government. His administration aims to make this transition smooth and anticipates the Education Department will shut down fully.
Congress Must Approve the Final Closure
Congress must vote to completely close the Department of Education. Trump’s executive order is just the first step. Secretary McMahon has admitted she needs Congress to finalize the plan for the Education Department to shut down. The Senate requires 60 votes to move forward with the closure. Without enough support, the department cannot be fully shut down. The administration is working to gather enough votes for approval.
Critics Worry About the Impact on Students and Funding
Critics argue that closing the department will hurt students. Many rely on financial aid and grants managed by the agency. Programs like Title 1 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act help low-income and special needs students. Some experts warn that shutting down the department could reduce these funds. They worry that states may not provide the same level of support.
Some Federal Education Services Will Continue to Operate
McMahon reassured the public that some programs will remain. The department will still handle student loans and funding for special needs students because hese services are legally required. As a result they will continue even if the agency closes. The administration plans to transfer these responsibilities to other departments. More details will be announced in the coming months.
Trump and Supporters Say Department Has Spent Too Much
Trump and his supporters believe the Department of Education has wasted money. They argue that the agency spends billions without improving student performance. Trump says closing the department will give families more choices. McMahon agrees and says this move will allow parents to seek better education options. The debate over the department’s effectiveness continues as the administration pushes forward with its plan.
