Trump Administration Seeks to Scale Back Federal Role in Education, Shift Power to States

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The Trump administration is pushing to dismantle the federal role in education, taking steps to hand more control over schools to state governments. As part of this effort, the Department of Education has announced new partnerships with other federal agencies to streamline education activities and reduce bureaucratic burdens. The move is part of President Donald Trump's long-held goal to shrink the federal government's influence in education, allowing states to take a more prominent role in shaping school policies. In March, Trump said he intended to close the Department of Education, citing his desire to return education to the states where it 'belongs.' The Department of Education, created by Congress in 1979, plays a crucial role in administering college loans, tracking student achievement, and enforcing civil rights in schools. However, federal law prohibits the department from controlling school operations, including curriculum, instruction, and staffing – decisions that rest with state and local governments. While critics argue that the department is a symbol of bureaucratic waste and advocate for a smaller federal government, proponents argue that the department's work is essential in ensuring equal access to education for all students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Key statistics: - The Department of Education provides federal funding to help districts with high percentages of needy children and to assist students with disabilities. - State and local governments provide more than 85% of public school funding. - The new partnerships aim to 'streamline federal education activities, reduce administrative burdens, and refocus programs and activities to better serve students and grantees.' The fate of the Department of Education remains uncertain as the Trump administration continues to push for a more limited federal role in education.