US Department of Education Workforce Cut in Half
The US Department of Education (DOE) will cut nearly half of its employees. This is an initial step toward the goal of eliminating the department entirely.
A workforce of 4,133 employees will be reduced to 2,183.
Prior to the involuntary cuts, 572 employees voluntarily resigned from the DOE workforce, making a total of 1,378 overall.
Secretary of Education Linda McMahon explained the DOE’s rationale for the layoffs in the press release:
“Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers.”
McMahon thanked the workers and stated that terminated employees will receive payment and benefits in full until early June:
“I appreciate the work of the dedicated public servants and their contributions to the Department. This is a significant step toward restoring the greatness of the United States education system… Pursuant to regulatory requirements and the Department’s collective bargaining agreement, all impacted employees will receive full pay and benefits until June 9th, as well as substantial severance pay or retirement benefits based upon their length of service.”
McMahon told Laura Ingraham that this endeavor was the first step in “eliminating bureaucratic blot.” President Donald Trump has said he would like McMahon to “put herself out of a job,” signaling the goal for the DOE’s ultimate abolishment.
Since his 2024 campaign, President Trump has called for an end to the DOE. The department was established in its current state by President Jimmy Carter in 1979. Its main purpose was to federally fund – and at times direct – national and state educational initiatives, along with overseeing student performance.
