Government Shutdown: A Glimpse of Life Without an Education Department
The government shutdown has caused anxiety for school leaders, who are unsure how long grant money will last and who can help them interpret federal laws.
However, for Education Secretary Linda McMahon, the shutdown offers a preview of a potential permanent situation.
No new grants are being awarded, and civil rights investigations have been halted.
- Money is still flowing for key programs.
- Schools and states are largely on their own.
This scenario aligns with President Donald Trump's vision of states having full control over education policy with minimal federal influence.
The Education Department has already undergone significant changes, with mass layoffs reducing the number of employees from 4,100 to 2,400 since Trump took office.
Author's summary: Shutdown reveals life without Education Department.