President Donald Trump of the United States signed an executive order on Thursday to commence the dismantling of the Department of Education, citing the agency's failure to enhance the nation's educational system despite substantial financial investments. In an official White House statement, Trump remarked, "Since 1979, the U.S. Department of Education has expended over $3 trillion without achieving tangible results. Although spending per student has surged by more than 245% during this period, there have been no measurable improvements in academic performance."
The statement further highlighted what Trump referred to as "alarming statistics" concerning the current state of education in the country. According to the report, math and reading scores for 13-year-olds are at their lowest in decades. It also pointed out that six out of ten fourth graders and nearly three-quarters of eighth graders lack adequate math proficiency; seven out of ten in both grades are not proficient in reading, with 40% of fourth graders not even reaching basic levels.
The report emphasized that standardized test scores have remained stagnant for decades, and that U.S. students rank 28th out of 37 OECD countries in mathematics. "Rather than perpetuating a failing system, the Trump administration will return education to where it belongs: individual states, which are better equipped to manage effective programs and address the unique needs of their populations," the order declared.
Earlier, Trump had announced, "Today, we make a historic decision that has been anticipated for 45 years. Shortly, I will sign an Executive Order to begin dismantling the Department of Education once and for all."
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of a dozen children seated at desks and included Republican governors such as Ron DeSantis (Florida), Jeff Landry (Louisiana), Bill Lee (Tennessee), and Kim Reynolds (Iowa), as well as Republican Congressman Rick Allen.
While the White House's plan aims to significantly reduce the federal government's role in education, Trump assured that some critical functions would be preserved, including Title I funding for low-income schools, Pell Grants, and funds for children with disabilities.
The announcement, which was one of his campaign promises, has elicited mixed reactions in Congress and among the public. Conservatives have hailed the end of an "inefficient bureaucratic system," while critics warn of the risks associated with dismantling an agency that ensures educational equity.
The fate of the Department of Education now rests with Congress, which must debate and vote on the entity's future.
FAQs on the Abolition of the Department of Education
Why does Trump want to dismantle the Department of Education?
Trump argues that despite significant financial investments, the Department of Education has failed to improve academic outcomes, and he believes that returning control to individual states will lead to more effective educational programs.
What will happen to federal education funding?
While the plan seeks to reduce federal involvement, Trump has stated that certain key funding, including Title I for low-income schools and Pell Grants, will be maintained.
What are the potential consequences of dismantling the Department of Education?
Critics caution that abolishing the Department could undermine educational equity and result in disparities in educational quality among different states.