Trump to Shutdown US Department of Education, Divides Opinion

President Donald Trump has now turned his guns on the US Department of Education, terming it “ineffective” and “a waste.” While appearing on Fox News recently, Trump said that he would direct Elon Musk to target the department in dismantling government costs as he continues his efforts to save money. President Trump has also instructed his pick for education secretary, Linda McMahon, to “put herself out of a job,” a sure sign of the president’s intention.

The plan has certainly revived controversy: upsets Democrats, teachers unions, and parents, who say closing the department would be disastrous for public education, particularly for the most needy. Conservative groups applaud the plan, which they say will return decision-making to the local levels. However, all sides concede that such a huge department would be a nightmare to break down.

The president of the National Education Association, Becky Pringle, said closing the Education Department would have devastating consequences for students, especially those with disabilities and from low-income backgrounds.