Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump has set his sights on eliminating the U.S. Department of Education, shifting power back to individual states. However, state officials and lawmakers across the country warn they are not prepared for such a massive overhaul.
With Trump’s administration drafting an executive order to begin the process, the lack of details has left education leaders scrambling to assess how schools would function without federal oversight.
Trump’s Plan to Transfer Education to the States
During a recent Cabinet meeting, Trump reiterated his vision:
“We want to move education back to the states where it belongs.”
For decades, conservatives have pushed to abolish the Department of Education, advocating for:
✅ Transferring key federal education functions to other federal agencies
✅ Shifting funding responsibilities for schools to state governments
✅ Converting federal funding into block grants with fewer federal restrictions
While the White House prepares its next steps, experts argue that states are unprepared to absorb these new responsibilities.
Confusion & Concerns Over Funding
One of the biggest concerns among state education leaders is how federal funding will be distributed if the Education Department is dismantled.
🔹 Title I Schools – Programs for low-income students rely on federal funding
🔹 Special Education Programs – Federal dollars help schools accommodate disabled students
🔹 Civil Rights Oversight – The agency ensures non-discrimination in schools
Connecticut state Rep. Maryam Khan, a former teacher, expressed concerns:
“There’s no solid plan, so we don’t even know what to prepare for. If this happens overnight, states won’t be able to adjust in time.”
Similarly, North Carolina state Rep. Julie von Haefen warned that many school districts depend on federal money:
“If we lose this funding, schools will struggle to survive. It’s a perfect storm for disaster.”
Republicans & Education Reform
While many GOP lawmakers support decentralizing education, even Republican-led states admit they are waiting on details.
Montana’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Susie Hedalen, stated:
“It’s hard to plan without knowing what cuts to expect. If we do gain more control, I hope it reduces red tape and federal overreach.”
However, critics argue that shifting control to states could result in:
❌ Reduced funding for public schools
❌ More money diverted to private school vouchers
❌ Weakened civil rights protections for students
What’s Next?
As Trump’s administration finalizes its plan, Congress must approve the department’s closure, making it an uphill battle.
Education advocates warn that shifting power to states could drastically change the legal landscape, particularly for students in marginalized communities.
For now, states are left waiting, unsure if they will soon bear the burden of running the U.S. education system alone.