

(dot) Gov: What Trump's Plans Mean For The Department of Education
Jan 13, 2025
John Vallant, Director of the Brown Center on Education Policy at Brookings, joins the discussion on the possible future of the Department of Education under President-elect Trump. They explore the agency's essential functions, historical evolution, and budgetary implications. Vallant highlights the challenges surrounding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and the potential impacts of shifting responsibilities away from federal oversight. The conversation also touches on changing educational policies, the rise of private school choice, and the complexities of equity in education.
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Department of Education's Origins
- The Department of Education's origins trace back to 1860s post-Civil War era.
- Its initial purpose was to gather and disseminate basic educational information to states.
Department of Education's Funding
- The Department of Education primarily funds student loans and grants for college.
- It also allocates 10% of K-12 public school funds towards important priorities like Title 1 and IDEA.
Local Control of Education
- Federal influence on curriculum is minimal in public schools.
- Local school districts and states hold primary decision-making power regarding curriculum and testing.