The Department of Education is about to undergo a significant transformation, and it's not going to be pretty.
According to sources, nearly half of the department's workforce will be let go, and employees will receive "reduction in force" notices on Tuesday.
But that's not all - the department's offices will also be closed on Tuesday evening and Wednesday due to "security reasons."
Trump's Plan to Dismantle the Department of Education
So, what's behind this sudden move? It's no secret that President Donald Trump has been vocal about his desire to give states more control over education.
In fact, he campaigned on this issue ahead of the 2024 election, stating, "I want to close up the Department of Education, move education back to the states."
Trump believes that this will allow states to make their own decisions about education, rather than relying on the federal government.
What Does This Mean for Education in the US?
The expected "reduction in force" notices come after reports surfaced that Trump is planning to sign an executive order to abolish the federal agency.
A draft of the order, obtained by The Wall Street Journal, instructs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department.
The order states that the federal government's control over education has "failed our children, our teachers, and our families."
A New Era for Education?
Linda McMahon, the Education Secretary, seems to be on board with Trump's plan.
In a letter to staff on her first day on the job, she wrote that she would lead a "momentous final mission" to send education back to the states.
McMahon also stated that the reconstruction of the department will "profoundly" alter staff, budgets, and agency operations.
What's Next for the Department of Education?
As the Department of Education faces this major shakeup, one thing is clear: the future of education in the US is about to change dramatically.
With Trump's plan to dismantle the department and give states more control, it's likely that we'll see some significant changes in the way education is funded and managed.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story!