U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to initiate the process of dismantling the Department of Education, shifting authority over education policy back to states and local communities.
The order, signed on Thursday, March 20, directs Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to “take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Department of Education” while ensuring compliance with federal laws and administration policies.
The executive order mandates that federal education funds be used in accordance with U.S. law, prohibiting programs that promote “diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)” or “gender ideology.” It also reaffirms that any federally funded program found engaging in illegal discrimination under these terms must be terminated.
Before signing the order, President Trump emphasized that essential education programs—including Pell Grants, Title I funding for low-income schools, and resources for students with disabilities—will remain intact. These programs will be redistributed across other federal agencies.
"Pell Grants, special education resources, and funding for disadvantaged students will be fully preserved," Trump stated.
The Department of Education was established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter and plays a crucial role in administering financial aid, including Pell Grants for low-income college students. Nationwide, over 30% of students benefit from these grants, including 15% of students at the University of Chicago.
The agency also oversees the federal student loan program and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which universities rely on to allocate financial aid and work-study opportunities.
Beyond financial aid, the department enforces civil rights laws, withholding federal funding from institutions that fail to comply. This oversight applies to both public and private universities, including research institutions that receive federal funding.
As the executive order takes effect, education policy in the U.S. is poised for a major transformation, with states expected to take on a larger role in shaping the future of American education.
