President Donald Trump's administration has set its sights on the Education Department, an agency established in 1979 to oversee federal education laws. Trump has labeled it as ineffective and expressed hopes that Linda McMahon, recently confirmed as its head, would dismantle it. The department's Office for Civil Rights has shifted focus from protecting students against discrimination to investigating transgender athletes in women's sports. Critics argue that these changes are undermining the department’s core mission and harming vulnerable students. Additionally, the administration's proposed executive order to abolish the department and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) have already led to significant cuts in research programs and layoffs, raising concerns about the future of federal education support.

Reforming the Role of the Education Department

The Education Department plays a crucial role in supporting underserved students and managing federal student loans. Despite claims that it exerts control over schools, its primary function is to implement federal laws and policies that benefit disadvantaged students. Programs like Title I provide funding to low-income schools, while IDEA supports students with disabilities. The department also oversees the FAFSA process, ensuring college-bound students can access financial aid. These functions are essential for maintaining educational equity and supporting students who need it most.

The department's responsibilities extend beyond K-12 education. It ensures that for-profit colleges do not exploit students by controlling federal aid access. Moreover, it acts as a watchdog for civil rights, addressing complaints related to disability and racial discrimination. The Institute of Education Sciences conducts vital research, including NAEP tests, which provide nationwide data on student performance. This research is critical for informing education practices and policies. However, recent cuts and layoffs have disrupted these functions, leading to concerns about the long-term impact on students and families.

The Consequences of Dismantling Educational Support Systems

The dismantling of the Education Department has already affected students, particularly those with disabilities. Complaints regarding disability rights were initially halted, leaving many without necessary support. Although processing resumed in mid-February, cases involving race and gender discrimination remain unresolved. The department's shift in focus to trans athletes and all-gender bathrooms has diverted attention from more pressing issues. Cuts at the Institute of Education Sciences have eliminated programs aimed at improving literacy and transitioning disabled students into post-secondary education.

At the college level, experts fear disruptions in the financial aid system. Without proper oversight, applying for and repaying student loans could become more challenging. The department's struggles with the new FAFSA rollout and ongoing administrative changes suggest potential difficulties ahead. Furthermore, weakening the department's research and oversight capabilities could allow colleges to misrepresent their success rates. Long-term consequences may include diminished support for high-needs students if programs like Title I and IDEA are transferred to other departments. Advocates emphasize the importance of elevating impacted communities' voices to address these concerns.