Lafayette, LA – In a continued push by the Trump administration to restructure federal agencies, Education Secretary Linda McMahon has provided further insight into the ongoing effort to dismantle the Department of Education. Speaking with Scripps News following a cabinet meeting on Thursday, McMahon shared that while no set timeline for the process exists, the administration is actively working toward its goal, though Congressional approval will ultimately be required.
“We’re still in the process of determining the best path forward,” McMahon said, emphasizing that the department’s dissolution will not be an immediate transition. “It’s something that will require collaboration with Congress, and we’re continuing to have those conversations.”
One key element of the effort is McMahon’s outreach to state and local education leaders. She revealed that she has been in frequent contact with governors and school superintendents across the country, gathering input on best practices and exploring ways to support education systems without the need for a centralized federal department. McMahon expressed confidence that the work was moving in a positive direction, noting that local officials were eager to collaborate on finding alternative solutions.
“We’re working together to determine what the best practices are for their needs,” she explained. “The tools they need to continue providing quality education to students are of utmost importance, and we’re making sure they have those.”
Despite the administration’s push to dismantle the Department of Education, concerns have arisen, particularly among parents and educators, regarding the future of critical education programs. Special education advocates, in particular, worry that the proposed changes could result in cuts or diminished effectiveness for programs such as Title I and IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) funding, which provide vital support for disadvantaged and special needs students.
However, McMahon sought to reassure the public, stating that funding for these programs would not be impacted by the administration’s efforts. “The president has made it clear from day one that dismantling the Department of Education does not mean defunding these essential programs,” McMahon affirmed. “The money for these programs is appropriated by Congress, and it will continue to be appropriated, regardless of the status of the department. Our budget for Title I and IDEA funding is not being decreased, and parents, teachers, and students can rest assured that these critical programs will remain fully supported.”
While the exact details of how the transition will take shape remain unclear, McMahon’s comments suggest that the administration is focused on a gradual, thoughtful approach to restructuring the federal education landscape. The coming months will likely bring more clarity as discussions continue and potential legislative actions unfold.
As this process moves forward, the spotlight will remain on how the administration balances its desire for a smaller federal footprint with the need to maintain essential services for students across the country.