U.S. Department of Education to Cut Half of Employees

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The Trump administration is reducing the US Department of Education’s workforce by nearly half, with layoffs and buyouts affecting about 2,000 employees.

The cuts are part of a move to shift education responsibilities away from the federal government.

“Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said in a statement.

The downsizing primarily impacts staff in Washington, D.C., with a Boston office also closed.

Critics argue that the department is overly ideological and ineffective, while advocates stress its critical functions in funding and oversight.

The Education Department’s future remains uncertain as debates over its role in education continue.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly said he would like states to control education. He campaigned on the issue ahead of the 2024 election.

“I want to close up Department of Education, move education back to the states,” Trump said in August 2024. “Of the 50 (states), I would bet that 35 would do great. And 15 of them, or, you know, 20 of them, will be as good as Norway. You know, Norway is considered great.”