The Department of Education (DOE) only accounted for 4% of federal funding in 2022, which may make it seem insignificant; giving President Trump justification to dismantle the agency. However, the DOE is critical. 

Originally formed in 1867, the DOE works to improve education across the country by enforcing non-discrimination laws within the public school system. It also provides 13% of essential funding that states need to run public schools. This may seem like a small amount, but the funds make a crucial difference because they support low income students facing education inequalities. The federal allocation funds a number of programs that benefit low-income students, allowing them to succeed in a system where they would normally struggle. These programs provide necessary technology and assistance to students who otherwise would not have access to these tools. 

If Trump gets rid of the DOE, these programs would be cut. The repercussions could be significant.  

A 2022 study done by the National Center for Education Statistics found that 83% of high performing students had access to a computer, whereas only 58% of low performing students had access. 

Contrary to popular belief, the DOE does not contribute to curricula for schools; those are set by the state. In fact, the majority of power regarding education is left to the states. This is why the department has the smallest staff out of all executive departments. 

While President Trump did issue an executive order to dismantle the DOE, it cannot actually happen without Congressional approval. 

While shutting down the DOE might not directly affect Pingree students, it has the potential to be very harmful for Massachuesetts residents and the country as a whole. Writing to state representatives and urging them to fight for the department can go a long way toward protecting funding for public school students, especially ones in need.