President Trump has signed an executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education. The White House says test scores for kids have been in decline for years, and it’s time to see education authority be returned to individual states.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon will have to get Congressional approval to officially abolish the department. The Education Department was first established under President Carter in 1979.
Kansas 3rd District congresswoman Sharice Davids issued a statement in reaction:
“Donald Trump’s attempt to dismantle the Department of Education isn’t about improving schools — it’s about diverting taxpayer dollars away from our kids to give more handouts to his billionaire friends. We’ve seen what happens when politicians take a wrecking ball to public education — just look at what (former governor Sam) Brownback did here in Kansas. It led to teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and crumbling schools. I respect the role of states in shaping their education systems, but the U.S. Department of Education fills critical gaps — ensuring students with disabilities get the support they need, helping rural schools stay afloat, and keeping our country competitive against places like China. Trump’s plan would gut these resources, leaving teachers jobless and students with fewer opportunities. I won’t stand by while he gambles with our children’s futures just to give more tax breaks to the ultra-wealthy.”
Another statement was released by the American Federation of Teachers with Robert Castleberry, a fifth-grade teacher in Kansas and AFT-Kansas secretary:
“We will lose counselors, social workers, behavior specialists—people who ensure safety and stability for students who need it most. Without these special needs supports, we aren’t setting students up for success. We are setting them up for failure. And that failure won’t be theirs—it will be ours.”
Kansas education officials also issued a statement in response to the President’s order:
The Kansas State Board of Education and the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) acknowledge the President’s decision to shut down the U.S. Department of Education. While we await Congress’ response, we will be reviewing the order over the next several days to ascertain the potential immediate and long-term impact on Kansas students, educators, and families.
Education is a state issue, and the State Board has constitutional authority over education. We appreciate the federal government recognizing that role.
For decades, federal support has played a critical role in ensuring equitable access to education, particularly for students with disabilities, those from low-income families, and rural communities. While we have received assurances that funding will not be affected, we do not know yet what impact the elimination of federal oversight will have for programs under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), and the Higher Education Act (HEA). The administration has said there will be no programmatic disruption.
As we navigate this unprecedented transition, the State Board and KSDE remain committed to continue working with federal and state leaders, school districts, and community partners to protect educational opportunities for all students. We will clarify funding sources, policy implications, and legal obligations while maintaining close communication with schools to ensure a smooth transition with minimal classroom disruptions statewide.
We are grateful for the technical assistance that we have received from the U.S. Department of Education throughout the years.
The State Board and KSDE remain steadfast in its responsibility to support Kansas educators and students during this time of uncertainty.
