The Education Department has embarked on a significant reorganization initiative, commencing employee transfers to various federal agencies. This action aligns with the administration’s broader strategy to dissolve the department. Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced that six interagency agreements have been established to facilitate these transitions.
Details of the Employee Transfers
As part of this reorganization, employees and programs will be moved to the Departments of Labor, Interior, State, and Health and Human Services. The aim is to revamp the federal education landscape. McMahon indicated that employees are being reassigned temporarily as a trial before seeking Congressional approval for more permanent changes.
Current Transfer Statistics
- Thirteen employees have been transferred to the Labor Department.
- The Education Department’s budget will continue to cover these positions.
- More interagency agreements are anticipated to be signed shortly.
Future Plans for the Education Department
Plans for closing the Education Department hinge on proving that these transfers are effective. McMahon mentioned that President Trump signed an executive order in March with the intent to dismantle the agency. However, closure by Congress remains a critical step, as the department was established by legislative action.
Potential Workforce Changes
This year, the Education Department has seen a reduction in its workforce, with mass layoffs and voluntary separation incentives affecting nearly half its employees. Although immediate layoffs are not planned, McMahon noted that they could be revisited as early as 2026.
- Reduction-in-force notices were previously issued to 20% of employees.
- A continuing resolution has paused these notices until January 30, 2026.
Public Sentiment and Program Implications
While initial public response to the closure of the Education Department was negative, there appears to be bipartisan support for transferring its programs to other agencies. McMahon assures that funding will continue uninterrupted, even as it shifts administrative oversight.
Transition of Key Education Programs
- The Labor Department will oversee federal funds for K-12 schools.
- Essential functions such as student loan oversight will remain with the Education Department.
Critics express concerns about the effectiveness of this transfer, citing that new agencies may lack the requisite expertise in education policy. This dispersal of programs risks undermining the national mission of the Education Department, as stated by AFGE Local 252 President Rachel Gittleman.
The changes proposed by the Education Department represent a pivotal moment in federal education policy. As the dialogue continues, stakeholders await further developments on the potential permanent restructuring.
