Shutdown proves how much Department of Education is needed, experts say

A top Trump administration official has proposed shifting major federal education functions—including student aid programs and civil rights enforcement—to private or state-level oversight, arguing the move would streamline operations amid ongoing budget disputes. The plan follows recent criticism from U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, who framed the government shutdown as evidence that the department’s role could be reduced or restructured. Critics warn such changes could weaken federal oversight of schools and student protections, while supporters say it would increase efficiency and local control. The proposal comes as lawmakers remain deadlocked over funding, raising questions about how the transition would be implemented without congressional approval.

Days after U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said the government shutdown proved how unnecessary the Department of Education is, the Trump administration announced plans to transition key ...