On March 20, 2025, flanked by students and educators in the East Room of the White House, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at dismantling the federal Department of Education, fulfilling a key promise to his conservative base. The order, a bold step toward devolving education policy to states and local boards, has reignited a fierce debate over the role of federal oversight in America’s schools.

“We’re returning education back to the states where it belongs,” Trump declared, standing amid state flags and young students signing mock orders at classroom desks. While the move stops short of fully eliminating the department—an action requiring Congressional approval—it sets the stage for significant cuts. Last week, the department announced plans to lay off nearly half its staff, aligning with Trump’s broader mission to shrink a federal government he calls “bloated and inefficient.”

The Department of Education oversees 100,000 public and 34,000 private schools, managing federal grants for needy districts, special needs programs, and arts funding, alongside $1.6 trillion in student loans. Yet, with over 85% of school funding sourced locally, conservatives argue it’s an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy. Trump echoed this, vowing to “shut it down as quickly as possible,” framing it as a stand against “liberal indoctrination” in education.

Critics, including liberal advocates, warn that dismantling federal oversight could deepen inequities in school funding and student support. As Trump pushes to reshape K-12 and higher education—targeting diversity programs and federal aid—the battle over America’s classrooms is far from over.