The Trump administration is preparing to scale back the Department of Education, continuing efforts to reduce federal oversight in schools. President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order instructing the department to begin limiting its operations.
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been reviewing multiple federal agencies, including the Education Department, to identify ways to reduce spending. Some DOGE staff members have reportedly accessed internal systems, fueling speculation that deep cuts are being considered.
While completely eliminating the department would require congressional action, the administration is expected to reassign certain functions elsewhere. The plan would shift more control over education policy to individual states, reflecting Trump’s belief that Washington should not be setting local school standards.
House Education Committee Chairman Tim Walberg of Michigan has stated that while abolishing the department entirely may not be possible, the administration should focus on “de-powering” it. A 2023 House vote to dismantle the agency failed, making it unlikely that Congress will revisit the issue in the near future.
The executive order’s release date has not been confirmed. Some officials believe the administration will hold off until Education Secretary nominee Linda McMahon is confirmed, though no hearing has been scheduled yet.
The restructuring of the Education Department is part of a broader initiative to reform government agencies. The Trump administration has made it clear that reducing unnecessary federal control is a priority, with similar measures being considered across other departments.
