“Debunking the Myths: Why Eliminating the Department of Education Doesn’t Have to Be Scary” – Washington Examiner

As someone who has worked as an education policy analyst and experienced the school system from many angles, I’ve seen how government rules can hold back real progress in education. The fear around getting rid of the Department of Education isn’t grounded in reality.

Right now, there’s talk about possibly dismantling the Department of Education, especially with the Trump administration leading the charge. This brings an exciting chance to rethink and improve education in America.

What could real change look like? Imagine giving students more school choices so that funding follows them wherever they go. Picture teachers having the freedom to teach without unnecessary barriers from outdated rules. Students could learn creatively, doing hands-on projects or exploring the world around them.

Many in the education system, including some Democrats and teachers’ unions, worry that shutting down the Department of Education would lead to chaos. But that’s not true at all.

So, why should we feel less worried about ending this department?

For starters, people often fear that cutting the department will hurt the quality of education. Have you looked at the disappointing test scores from the Nation’s Report Card? Since its creation, scores have hardly improved. In fact, states often succeed more when they aren’t tied to the federal government.

Take Utah as an example. Despite having one of the lowest per-student funding levels, the state ranks second for education quality. This success is partly due to its emphasis on school choice — from charter schools to homeschooling options — showing that providing various educational paths can lead to better student outcomes.

Giving power back to states could boost innovation, flexibility, and student performance. It doesn’t mean cutting funds; instead, it may streamline how money is spent. Federal funding could be distributed as block grants, allowing states to meet local needs without the strings attached.

Teachers won’t lose their jobs because the Department of Education doesn’t hire them. School districts and states do. More funding and fewer federal mandates might even help schools offer better salaries and attract great teachers tailored to community needs.

The reality is, the Department of Education doesn’t teach kids. It takes public money, uses some for its own purposes, and then hands back what’s left with many regulations attached.

During my high school years, I closely worked with teachers, grading papers and organizing activities. Their passion for teaching stood out. Many entered the profession to inspire a love of learning.

But I also witnessed the challenges they faced — endless testing, data collection, and dull meetings that sucked the joy from teaching. Too many talented educators leave the profession within a few years, citing stress from government rules that shift focus away from students to rigid state and federal demands.

Even when I attended private and charter schools that were said to be more flexible, they still had to follow government regulations. This highlights how much these rules limit real educational freedom. Strong leadership is necessary to break these barriers. McMahon could have a significant impact as education secretary if confirmed.

This confirmation isn’t just about her role; it’s about changing how education works in our country. McMahon has a chance to revolutionize the system by empowering those who really understand students: parents, states, and local communities.

Ending the Department of Education isn’t about giving up on education. It’s about giving power back to those who care most about student success. By focusing on local control, we can create a more effective education system that values choice, flexibility, and real learning experiences for all students.

Frances Floresca is an education policy analyst and reporter.