Schools Lose Support as Education Office Passes Jobs to Other Agencies

The U.S. Department of Education is transferring key responsibilities to other federal bodies, a move that could reshape how schools receive assistance and funding.

Key Transfers

Note: The HHS deal excludes special‑education programs for now, though future shifts are possible.

Context & Rationale

• The administration aims to reduce the size and influence of the Education Department.
• Congress retains the power to shut down the department, but officials are already dividing its duties.
• Last year saw similar transfers to the Labor and Interior Departments, affecting programs like Title I that aid low‑income students.

Criticisms

• Uncertainty for Students: Critics warn that shifting tasks to agencies without educational expertise could confuse schools and hurt students.
• Union Concerns: A union spokesperson highlighted that such moves undermine trust and jeopardize federal support.
• Senatorial Warning: A senator from Washington state cautioned that the new arrangements may create more bureaucracy and threaten vital resources for families.

Future Outlook

• The State Department will now collect data and enforce rules requiring colleges to disclose large gifts.
• HHS’s transfer includes six programs moving to the Administration for Children and Families, overseeing grant competitions and technical assistance.
• The 2026 budget request proposes eliminating funding for five of these programs, leaving many recipients uncertain about next year’s support.
• Projects in academic and after‑school enrichment are at risk as grant recipients are informed that funding may not continue.

The ongoing reallocation of responsibilities signals a significant shift in federal education policy, raising questions about continuity and effectiveness for schools across the country.