President Trump on Thursday signed an executive order to significantly dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, reducing its functions to the bare minimum as part of his campaign promise to shrink federal government and return educational authority to the states.

The move comes amid growing criticism over the nation’s declining student performance in standardized tests, particularly in math and reading, despite decades of heavy federal spending. 

Speaking at the White House, Trump cited $3 trillion spent over 45 years and falling academic results as justification for the overhaul. “This is a decision that has taken 45 years to make,” he said, referencing the department’s founding in 1979, which he and many Republicans have long criticized. “We are dismantling it once and for all.” 

The signing event featured a dozen children seated at school desks, governors from Republican-led states including Ron DeSantis of Florida, Jeff Landry of Louisiana, Bill Lee of Tennessee, Kim Reynolds of Iowa, and Republican Congressman Rick Allen.

Trump emphasized that United States spending per student has been the highest among developed nations, yet academic standards have declined. 

While the department will be stripped of most functions, the administration confirmed that core responsibilities, such as managing student aid, scholarships, and loans, will continue.

What happens afterwards

Programs for children with special needs and disabilities, as well as Title I funding supporting low-income students, will remain in place, though they will be redistributed among other federal agencies. 

Although a full closure of the Department would require congressional approval, which is considered unlikely due to expected Democratic opposition, Trump expressed confidence that he could secure enough support in Congress to achieve his goal.

At the ceremony, he introduced Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, stating she might be “our last education secretary” and suggesting that some Democrats agree the department has outlived its usefulness. 

“Education belongs with the states,” Trump concluded, reinforcing his message that local authorities are better positioned to manage schools than the federal government.

His announcement marks a bold step in reshaping the federal role in American education and underscores ongoing debates over efficiency, spending, and academic outcomes in United States schools. 

Critics warn that the dismantling could disrupt vital programs and create challenges in standardizing educational support nationwide, while supporters argue it restores local control and accountability. As the plan moves forward, Trump’s vision for U.S. education remains a major point of contention on Capitol Hill and across the country.