US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday to limit the power of the Department of Education. As a result, states and local boards will now have more control over school policies. This move fulfills a key Republican campaign promise and aligns with Trump’s long-standing criticism of the department.
Republicans Push for Local Control
For years, Trump and other conservatives have argued that the Education Department is wasteful and influenced by liberal ideology. Consequently, Trump wants to dismantle the agency, but doing so requires congressional approval. Since Congress established the department in 1979, only an act of Congress can officially eliminate it.
Meanwhile, Republicans have announced plans to introduce a bill to shut it down. However, Democrats strongly oppose the move and have vowed to fight against it.
Order Directs Education Secretary to Act
According to the executive order, the education secretary must take all necessary steps to close the department and return power to states and local communities. However, the order does not provide specific details on how this will happen.
Even though Trump aims to reduce the department’s role, the White House confirmed that some essential functions will continue. In particular, Trump stated that his administration will preserve key programs, including Title I funding for low-income schools, Pell Grants, and financial aid for children with disabilities.
Uncertainty Over Student Loan Management
Initially, the White House stated that the department would continue managing federal student loans. However, the executive order suggests otherwise. It claims that the department lacks the resources to oversee its $1.6 trillion loan portfolio. Therefore, the order directs officials to transfer loan management to another entity better suited for the task.
Trump Criticizes Education Department
During the signing ceremony, Trump blamed the Education Department for America’s declining academic performance. He insisted that states would do a better job managing education.
“It’s doing us no good,” Trump said.
