Trump Administration Cuts Half of Education Department Jobs in Move Toward Agency Closure

Over 1,300 employees were terminated as part of a broader plan to dismantle the Department of Education, with congressional approval still required for full closure.

The Department of Education announced the termination of more than 1,300 employees, reducing its workforce by nearly 50% from its January 2025 staffing levels.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed the layoffs are the initial step in President Trump’s directive to eliminate the department, though congressional approval is necessary for full closure.
Key programs such as Pell Grants, student loans, and special education funding will continue to operate as required by law, though concerns about delays and disruptions have been raised.
Critics, including advocacy groups and unions, warn the cuts will harm students, families, and borrowers by reducing civil rights enforcement, financial aid processing, and loan servicing capabilities.
The administration is exploring plans to shift the department’s responsibilities to other agencies, including moving student loan management to the Treasury Department and civil rights enforcement to the Department of Justice.

The Christian Science Monitor

The Daily Caller

The Hill