What’s Happening with the Department of Education Under Trump? Here’s What You Need to Know
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If you’ve been keeping an eye on the news, you’ve probably seen headlines about big changes coming to the U.S. education system under the Trump administration. So, what’s really going on — and what does it mean for students, parents, and teachers?
In this post, we’re breaking down the Trump administration’s education agenda in plain English: from efforts to scale back the Department of Education to major policy shifts around school curriculum, parental rights, and college reform.
Let’s dive in.
1. Trump Wants to Dismantle the Department of Education
Yep, you read that right. In early 2025, President Trump signed an executive order to begin dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. While a full shutdown would require Congress to act, this move signals a strong push toward giving states and local school districts more control over education decisions.
The idea? Shrink the role of the federal government in schools and return power to parents and local communities.
2. Executive Order 14190: Banning “Radical” School Content
One of the most talked-about changes is Executive Order 14190, aimed at stopping what the administration calls “radical indoctrination” in schools.
Here’s what it does:
- Bans K–12 schools from teaching “gender ideology” and critical race theory
- Allows for investigations into schools accused of violating the ban
- Threatens loss of federal funding for schools that don’t comply
- Criminalizes educators who assist in gender transitions for minors (even using preferred pronouns)
This policy has sparked major controversy. Supporters say it protects kids and reinforces traditional values. Critics argue it restricts free speech and targets LGBTQ+ students and staff.
3. Agenda 47: Big Changes Coming to Colleges and Universities
Trump’s education plan doesn’t stop at K–12. His Agenda 47 initiative includes a major shake-up for higher education:
- Replacing college accreditation agencies with ones that support “American values”
- Eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs on campuses
- Requiring standardized tests for college admission and graduation
- Taxing the endowments of schools that promote DEI policies
In short, the administration is pushing to depoliticize campuses — and hold colleges accountable for what students actually learn.
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4. Focus on Parental Rights and School Choice
The Trump administration is putting a major spotlight on parental rights in education. A key message? Parents — not the government — should be the primary decision-makers in their children’s schooling.
This includes strong support for:
- School choice: Giving families options beyond traditional public schools
- Religious and charter schools: Expanding access to alternative education
- Opt-out policies: Allowing parents to reject curriculum they disagree with
These ideas are popular among conservative voters and homeschool advocates, and they’re a big part of the administration’s education platform.
5. Legal Challenges Are Already Rolling In
Unsurprisingly, these policies are facing pushback. States like Maine have filed lawsuits over federal funding threats related to transgender rights in schools. Civil rights groups, educators, and legal experts are also raising concerns about academic freedom and student protections.
So while the Trump administration is moving fast, expect a wave of legal battles and public debate in the months ahead.
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Final Thoughts
Whether you love it or hate it, the Trump administration’s education agenda is bold, controversial, and already making waves. If fully implemented, these changes could reshape how American education works — from kindergarten classrooms to college campuses.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on what happens next. In the meantime, whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, now’s a good time to stay informed, stay involved, and speak up about the future of education.