Former President Donald Trump has signed an order to start the process of shutting down the U.S. Department of Education. This big decision could change how schools are managed in the country, but it won’t happen overnight. Congress must first approve it before any real changes take place.

Trump’s order is just the first step. It doesn’t immediately close the department but sets up a process to make it happen. The Department of Education was created in 1980 and is responsible for making education policies and funding schools. If it is shut down, major changes will follow:

• Power to States – The department’s responsibilities would be given to individual states. Trump believes local governments should control education instead of the federal government. Supporters think this will improve education, while critics worry that it could make school quality very different from one state to another.

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• Less Federal Funding – Schools get a lot of money from the federal government. If the department is removed, funding for programs like Pell Grants and student loan forgiveness may be cut, making college less affordable for many students.

• Job Losses – Thousands of employees who work for the Department of Education could lose their jobs. This includes those who handle student loans and school funding programs.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

People have different opinions on this move.

• Supporters say it will reduce government control and give states the freedom to improve education in their own way. They believe the department has too much power and that local communities know what’s best for their students.

• Opponents argue that it will hurt public schools, especially in low-income areas. They fear that education will become unfair, with wealthier states having better schools while poorer states struggle.

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What Happens Next?

Even though Trump signed the order, the process is far from over.

1. Congress Needs to Approve It – Both the House and Senate must vote on this plan. Right now, Democrats have control of the Senate, making it difficult for the proposal to pass. However, if Republicans take over in the future, it could gain more support.

2. Legal Challenges – Even if Congress approves, opponents will likely challenge it in court, arguing that the federal government has a duty to ensure equal education for all. These legal battles could delay or stop the plan altogether.

Final Thoughts

Trump’s order has sparked a big debate, but nothing is final yet. The future of the Department of Education will depend on Congress, the courts, and public opinion. If the plan moves forward, it could take years to fully happen. For now, schools and students will have to wait and see what happens next.