Trump’s Pick for Education Chief Sketches a Roadmap for Dismantling the Department

A Glimpse into the Future of Education under Betsy DeVos

Donald Trump’s selection of Betsy DeVos as his Secretary of Education has sent shockwaves through the education community, with many wondering what her plans are for the department. In a recent interview, DeVos outlined her vision for the department, which included a roadmap for dismantling the agency. Here’s a breakdown of her proposals and what they might mean for the future of education in the United States.

Reorienting the Department

DeVos has vowed to “reorient” the department, a phrase that has been interpreted as code for dismantling the agency. In her words, she plans to “reorient” the department to focus on “state and local control” and “more flexibility” for schools. What this means is unclear, but it’s likely to involve reducing the role of the federal government in education and giving more power to states and local school districts.

Eliminating the Office of Civil Rights

One of the first targets of DeVos’s reorientation plan is the Office of Civil Rights, which is responsible for investigating and resolving complaints of discrimination and harassment in schools. DeVos has been critical of the office, saying it’s “not effective” and “too focused on litigation.” Her plan is to eliminate the office and instead rely on state and local authorities to handle these issues.

Funding Cuts

DeVos has also proposed significant funding cuts to the department, which could have a devastating impact on schools and students. She’s recommended reducing the department’s budget by 10% over the next two years, which would lead to layoffs and program cuts. This could have a disproportionate impact on low-income schools, which already face significant challenges in funding and resources.

Privatization and Charter Schools

DeVos has been a long-time advocate for privatization and charter schools, and her plan is to increase funding for these programs. Charter schools, which are publicly funded but privately run, have been criticized for their lack of transparency and accountability. Privatization, which involves outsourcing public services to private companies, has been shown to be inefficient and costly.

Conclusion

DeVos’s plan for the department is likely to have far-reaching consequences for the future of education in the United States. While her ideas may be controversial, they have the potential to shake up the status quo and bring about significant changes in the way education is delivered. As the debate surrounding her nomination continues, it’s essential to consider the potential impact of her policies on students, teachers, and the broader education community.

FAQs

* What is the Office of Civil Rights?
The Office of Civil Rights is an office within the Department of Education responsible for investigating and resolving complaints of discrimination and harassment in schools.
* What is privatization in education?
Privatization in education involves outsourcing public services to private companies, which can be more expensive and less accountable.
* What is the impact of charter schools on public education?
Charter schools are publicly funded but privately run, which can lead to a lack of transparency and accountability. They have also been shown to be less effective than traditional public schools.

Note: This article was originally published on February 13, 2025.