Overview
- Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order on March 20, 2025, directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin the process of dismantling the Department of Education.
- The initiative aims to shift federal education responsibilities to individual states while maintaining key programs like scholarships and funding for low-income schools.
- The department announced layoffs of nearly half its staff on March 11, 2025, as part of the dismantling process.
- Full closure of the department requires Senate approval, where Republicans lack the 60 votes needed to pass such legislation.
- The plan has drawn significant opposition from Democrats, teacher unions, and parents, who argue it will harm disadvantaged schools and students with learning disabilities.