In a significant political maneuver, President Donald Trump has officially signed an executive order aimed at downsizing and potentially dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. This move has sparked widespread discussion regarding the future of federal education programs, especially those benefitting disadvantaged students and civil rights protections.
On March 20, 2025, Trump directed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to initiate the transfer of key functions, such as funding for Pell Grants and Title I programs, to other federal agencies, including the Department of Justice and the Department of the Treasury. Experts assure that essential programs will continue despite these changes. Sarah Parshall Perry, a top legal expert at the Heritage Foundation, emphasized the importance of continuity in education support, stating, "They want to make sure, especially with things like Title I schools for disadvantaged students, and high poverty areas to civil rights protections for girls in sports, to race equality in education through Title Six will continue to be enforced through the federal Department of Education until and unless those burdens, those responsibilities, can be shifted to other departments, and that would take place by congressional action."
Perry's insights reiterate that while steps to dismantle the department are underway, the enforcement of civil rights and financial aid responsibility will remain paramount. "This is going to be the first step in a very long, consistent, labor-intensive process to be able to continue the work of downsizing," she noted. Educators and legal advocates are particularly focused on the implications for Title I funding, which aids schools in high poverty areas, and how these shifts may affect educational equity across the nation.
In New York City, education officials have publicly reinforced their commitment to existing policies, even amid federal changes. On March 21, David Mantell, the Education Department’s executive director of policy and advocacy, asserted that local schools would not alter their programs or practices in response to Trump’s orders. "We are not changing our policies. We’re not telling schools to change any of their programs or their practices, the way they go about doing things," he explained. His stance reflects a determination to maintain compliance with current education laws amidst the shifting political climate.
Funding from the federal government constitutes roughly 5%, or $2.2 billion, of New York City’s Education Department budget. This funding is crucial in providing programs that assist in high poverty schools through Title 1, support for special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and subsidized school meals for public students. Mantell highlighted these funding streams and their importance to city schools as officials brace for potential impacts from Trump's executive order.
At the same time, the executive order tasks McMahon with ensuring that federally supported programs do not engage in practices labeled as "illegal discrimination" under the often controversial terms like 'diversity, equity, and inclusion.' This directive has already led to investigations initiated by the U.S. Department of Education against states like Illinois and Maine for alleged Title IX violations. Mantell expressed concern regarding the effect of such policies on educational environments, stating, "They are throwing a lot out there, creating a lot of fear, sowing a lot of confusion… that’s part of the point."
Meanwhile, parents and community groups are expressing a desire for clarity and communication from education leaders regarding these changes. Concerns were raised during a recent meeting of the Lower Manhattan Community Education Council, where parents voiced frustration about the delayed communication from Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos over issues relating to Trump’s executive orders. Parents like Grauven Olivares emphasized the need for timely information, expressing a desire for written assurance that their educational needs and rights are being safeguarded: "As a parent, I would love to see that in writing just to see that you are standing up for us… You are aware."
As the New York City Education Department grapples with the implications of these federal changes, officials continue to work on materials to inform parents and educators about their rights and the impact of potential federal cuts. Jedrlinic, the Education Department’s senior executive director for policy and advocacy, reiterated the challenges of navigating the current political environment, noting the complexity of legal language and the need for proactive communication to reassure families.
Ultimately, Trump’s executive order marks a significant shift in the narrative of federal control over education, aligning with long-standing assertions to restore local authority and promote school choice. As discussions unfold regarding the future of educational funding and policies, the courts may become pivotal in resolving the myriad challenges this new direction presents.
