Trump Signs Executive Order to Downsize Education Department, But Programs Will Continue
In a move to downsize and eventually dismantle the Department of Education, President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to initiate the shutdown process and transfer key functions to other federal agencies. However, an expert in contact with White House stakeholders has assured that the department’s programs, including funding, student loans, and civil rights protections, will continue.
Ensuring Continued Education Programs
Sarah Parshall Perry, a top legal expert at the Heritage Foundation, stated in an interview with Fox News Digital that the Trump administration is committed to ensuring that important programs, such as Title I schools for disadvantaged students, civil rights protections for girls in sports, and race equality in education through Title Six, will continue to be enforced through the federal Department of Education until and unless they can be shifted to other departments by congressional action.
The Long Process of Downsizing
Perry emphasized that Thursday’s executive order is just the first step in a long process of downsizing the Department of Education. She explained that while the department has already taken steps to downsize, it will continue to enforce civil rights and financial aid responsibilities until those duties are passed to other agencies. For example, civil rights enforcement will shift to the Department of Justice, while student loan processes will be handled by the Department of the Treasury.
Narrow Focus on Critical Race Theory and Diversity
Perry also highlighted that the initial cuts within the department have been focused on slashing critical race theory and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, in line with Trump’s other executive orders. However, she emphasized that the executive order aims to continue enforcing civil rights and administering federal financial programs, as those duties cannot be offloaded to other agencies without congressional action.
Federal Funding for Students
Under Trump’s executive order, students attending college or private schools with student loans or Pell grants will continue to receive their federal funding. Perry addressed the misconception that schools would be forced to close or raise taxes due to budget shortfalls caused by downsizing the department. She clarified that federal taxpayer spending makes up less than 10% of per pupil funding in the state, with the remaining amount split between local and state taxpayers.
The Growth of the Education Department
Since its establishment in 1979, the Education Department’s budget has grown significantly, reaching approximately $268 billion in Fiscal Year 2024. This accounts for 4% of total federal spending. Prior to the department’s creation, federal student loans were administered through the Guaranteed Student Loan Program, established in 1965.
Strengthening Education at State and Local Levels
Perry emphasized the importance of strengthening education at the state and local levels while ensuring continued federal oversight of student loans, civil rights laws, and Title One funding for underprivileged and low-income students. She suggested that these federal programs could be separated or “divested” from the Department of Education, reducing the department’s role in administering them.
Restoring Local Control of Education
Trump’s executive order aligns with his campaign promise to restore local control of education and support school choice amid the ongoing culture war. While the order signifies a significant change in the education landscape, it is important to note that the department’s programs will continue to be enforced until alternative arrangements are made.
