President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to make sweeping changes to federal agencies, but a top target on his list is the US Education Department. Critics argue that the agency has been ineffective and bloated, while supporters see it as a necessary protector of students’ rights.
Trump’s schools agenda, outlined in his “Agenda47” campaign platform, aims to reduce federal funding for programs promoting critical race theory and gender ideology in schools. He also plans to restrict participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports and eliminate federal oversight of school policies on these issues.
The Education Department was created by Congress in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter. Initially, its role was limited to education, but after World War II, the federal government increased spending on education, including through the GI Bill, which provided millions of veterans with educational benefits.
If Trump follows through on his plans, the Education Department could drastically reduce its role in student borrowing and debt relief. The $1.6 trillion student loan program, currently run by the agency, would likely be taken over by another government or quasi-governmental entity.
Opponents argue that Trump’s proposals would undermine civil rights protections for students, particularly those from marginalized communities. They point to the agency’s enforcement of civil rights law and its efforts to address issues like sex discrimination based on gender identity.
The decision to eliminate the Education Department is part of a broader push by Trump to reduce federal intervention in education. This approach has been met with skepticism by educators and advocacy groups, who argue that it would disproportionately harm vulnerable students and undermine the country’s commitment to public education.
As Trump’s second presidency unfolds, the fate of the Education Department remains uncertain. One thing is clear: its elimination would mark a significant shift in federal policy on education and civil rights.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2024/11/12/trump-close-education-department-proposal-explained