Washington, D.C. – As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to step into office for a potential second term, one of his boldest proposals is dismantling the Department of Education (DOE), a federal institution responsible for supporting schools across the nation. This unprecedented change would shift many educational responsibilities from the federal government to individual states, fueling a major restructuring of how American schools operate.
Established by President Jimmy Carter, the Department of Education has long played a central role in funding and setting policies for schools, including Title I assistance for under-resourced schools and Pell Grants for students in need. Trump’s new Agenda47 framework, however, proposes to end these programs, advocating for state control over education and limiting federal influence.
Content and Curriculum Restrictions in Schools
Trump’s plans for education also focus on limiting certain topics in classrooms. In line with his campaign’s “American Way of Life” initiative, he proposes restricting curriculum that includes critical race theory, gender identity discussions, or what he describes as “political” content. His administration has voiced intentions to cut federal funding for schools that teach these subjects, a stance that has gained traction among some Republican supporters. Critics, however, warn that these restrictions may lead to “censorship” of diverse perspectives, impacting students’ comprehensive understanding of history, society, and culture.
Furthermore, Trump’s campaign suggests creating a credentialing system for teachers that promotes “patriotic values,” as outlined in his book Government Gangsters. The proposed 1776 Commission would revisit the history curriculum to ensure it aligns with “foundational American values,” although specifics on these values remain undefined.
School Choice and Parental Rights
Trump’s approach to education reform also emphasizes expanding school choice. His proposal would allow public education funds to follow students to non-public schools, including private and homeschooling options. Known as universal school choice, this program would provide parents more control over their children’s education, allowing them to select schools based on their preferences. While this policy has garnered support, similar initiatives have been voted down recently in states like Colorado and Kentucky.
Additionally, Trump has pledged to enhance parental rights in schools. His Parental Bill of Rights would grant parents insight into what their children are learning, allow them to review school budgets, and ensure they are informed on classroom guest speakers or curriculum changes.
Teacher Tenure and School Funding
Among Trump’s more controversial proposals is his plan to end teacher tenure, making it easier for schools to dismiss educators based on performance. He advocates for merit-based pay to reward teachers based on student outcomes, though some education experts argue that factors like funding, class size, and resource access also impact student success.
Trump has also suggested that school funding will be adjusted according to each institution’s policies, potentially linking financial support to a school’s adherence to his administration’s proposed guidelines.
Higher Education and Student Loans
Although student loan forgiveness remains absent from Trump’s agenda, he has proposed a new, free university called the “American Academy,” which would be funded by taxing and fining private universities. His plan aims to establish an alternative educational route for students seeking affordable higher education without the heavy debt burdens currently affecting many.
As Trump’s team refines these initiatives, educators, parents, and policymakers are closely watching how these sweeping changes could alter the educational landscape. Whether these policies will enhance or hinder American education remains a topic of national debate, with supporters praising the focus on “patriotism” and state control, while critics express concern over potential restrictions and funding cuts.
