US Moves to Transfer Education Authority to States
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday initiating the process of dismantling the federal Department of Education, declaring it a step to return educational control to state governments. The move, described by Trump as fulfilling a long-standing campaign promise, seeks to eliminate what he called a bureaucracy that has 'failed students for decades.'
Key Programs to Remain Amid Restructuring
While pledging to dissolve the department 'as quickly as possible,' Trump emphasized that critical initiatives like Pell Grants for low-income college students and Title I funding for disadvantaged K-12 schools would be preserved and redistributed to other federal agencies. Special education funding will also remain intact under the plan.
Critics Warn of Equity Risks
The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) strongly opposed the decision, with Education Task Force Chair Representative Mark Takano stating: 'This threatens access to resources millions of students rely on.' Critics argue the restructuring could exacerbate disparities, particularly affecting underserved communities including Asian American populations dependent on federal education support.
Legal Challenges Loom
The order faces potential legal hurdles, with CAPAC leaders calling it 'unlawful' and urging Congress to assert its authority. Observers note the move reignites longstanding debates about federal versus state responsibilities in education – a discussion with parallels in some Asian nations balancing centralized standards with regional autonomy.
