WASHINGTON D.C. — The U.S. Department of Education is cutting nearly 50% of its workforce, reducing staff from over 4,100 to about 2,180 employees. The move aligns with President Trump’s plan to eventually dismantle the department and shift education responsibilities to individual states.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon confirmed that the layoffs mark the first step toward shutting down the agency. Employees have received “Reduction in Force” notices, with nearly 600 staffers already resigning or retiring over the past seven weeks.
Founded in 1979, the Department of Education has played a key role in supporting local education programs and ensuring equal opportunities. Critics argue that these cuts will harm public education by increasing class sizes and reducing resources.
The administration defends the decision as a push for efficiency and accountability, stating that resources will be redirected to benefit students, parents, and teachers.
