On a Thursday in June 2025, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to close down the federal Department of Education. He wants to give control of schools back to state governments.
The order was announced during a special event at the White House, where Trump was joined by students sitting at desks.
What Trump Said
Donald Trump spoke proudly as he signed the order, declaring, “We’re going to shut it down and shut it down as quickly as possible.” He believes schools should be run by states rather than Washington, saying, “We’re going to return education back to the states where it belongs.”
Can the Department Actually Close?
The Department of Education was created in 1979. It cannot be officially closed by an executive order—only Congress can do that. But Trump’s order could cause big cuts in money, staff and resources. That might weaken the department even without formally abolishing it.
Why Now?
During the signing, Trump mentioned that US educational results lag behind Europe and China. He thinks returning power to state governments would save money and improve standards.
Role of Linda McMahon
Linda McMahon, former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, is now Education Secretary. She began by reducing the department’s staff significantly. Trump said she might be the last one to hold that title if the department truly winds down.
What Will Change
The new plan is to shift most jobs and money to state-level authorities. However, a smaller “rump” federal department will probably continue managing essential tasks, like student loans and supporting poor and special-needs students, according to Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Support from Conservatives
The right-wing Heritage Foundation praised the move. On X (formerly Twitter), they called it “a beautiful day to dismantle the Department of Education.”
Concerns from Democrats and Educators
Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, called the move a “tyrannical power grab.” They warned it could harm students who depend on federal funding and protections, especially those from low‑income families or with disabilities.
What Could Change Locally
Currently, the federal government provides about 13 % of funding for primary and secondary schools. While most school money comes from states and local governments, federal funds are crucial for vulnerable students and enforcing civil rights laws.
The Bigger Picture
This move comes as part of Trump’s broader push to downsize the federal government with advice from Elon Musk and his “Department for Government Efficiency” (DOGE). They have already cut staff and budgets in several other government agencies.
Legal Hurdles
A similar effort to break up the US Agency for International Development (USAID) was blocked by a federal judge this week. The judge said such an action “likely violated the US Constitution.” This could mean that legal challenges lie ahead for the Department of Education plan too.
Trump’s order is a major step toward returning control of education to the states. Supporters say it could save money and reduce bureaucracy. But critics warn it may harm students who depend on federal aid and protections. Only time—and possibly the courts—will tell how much of the plan becomes reality.
This story marks a key point in America’s long-running debate over how schools should be governed. While supporters see it as a chance for local creativity and freedom, opponents worry it might weaken national standards and hurt disadvantaged students.
