The U.S. Department of Education has initiated significant staff reductions, aligning with President Donald Trump’s objective to streamline federal operations. On Tuesday, the department announced layoffs affecting over 1,300 employees, reducing its workforce by nearly half.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed that these layoffs are part of a broader plan to eventually dismantle the department. She emphasized that the cuts aim to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy without disrupting essential educational programs.
The department’s workforce will decrease from approximately 4,100 to around 2,000 employees. Despite the significant reduction, officials assert that key functions, such as distributing federal aid to schools, managing student loans, and overseeing Pell Grants, will continue without interruption.
McMahon highlighted the administration’s intent to reallocate resources directly to states, enhancing local control over education. She stated, “[Trump] is taking the bureaucracy out of education so that more money flows to the states. Better education is closest to the kids, with parents, with the local superintendents, with local school boards.”
Critics, including educators and union representatives, express concern that these staff reductions may impair the department’s ability to enforce civil rights protections and efficiently manage federal student loans. They argue that the cuts could negatively impact millions of students, particularly those from lower-income families and students with disabilities.
Trump campaigned on the promise that he would dismantle the DOE and return the right of school choice to parents. “We’re going to end education coming out of Washington, DC. We’re going to close it up – all those buildings all over the place and people that in many cases hate our children. We’re going to send it all back to the states,” Trump shared in campaign video.
The administration maintains that the restructuring will lead to a more efficient and accountable system, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. By shifting decision-making power back to states and local communities, the plan reduces federal overreach and empowers parents and educators.
