President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order Thursday directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to begin dismantling the Department of Education, according to a draft obtained by NPR.
The order instructs McMahon to take “all necessary steps” to close the department but acknowledges that congressional approval is required. Republicans attempted similar efforts in the past but failed, as many of the department’s key responsibilities enjoy bipartisan support.
Since its creation in 1979, the Education Department has spent over $1 trillion, but Trump’s order argues it has failed to improve student achievement. However, data from the Nation’s Report Card shows math scores improved significantly before the pandemic, which caused widespread learning loss.
The order follows cuts and staff reductions at the department, including gutting the Institute of Education Sciences and laying off probationary employees linked to DEIA programs. McMahon has stated that education funding, including Title I and IDEA, will remain but could be transferred to another agency such as Health and Human Services.
An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found 63% of Americans oppose closing the department, with 37% in favor.
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