What Happens if the Department of Education is Eliminated?

Author

ruvim senina
March 27, 2025

The U.S. Department of Education has played a critical role in shaping the country’s education system since its establishment in 1979. It ensures equal access to education, enforces federal laws, and provides funding for programs that support students with disabilities, low-income families, and other vulnerable groups. However, recent discussions about eliminating the department and shifting full control of education to the states raise important questions about the future of public education. Without federal oversight, the education system could become fragmented, leading to disparities in funding, resources, and opportunities for students across different states.

The Risks of State-Controlled Education

Proponents of eliminating the Department of Education argue that states should have full authority over their school systems, allowing for more localized decision-making. However, this could create a patchwork of education standards, where students’ opportunities depend on their state of residence. Wealthier states may continue to invest in high-quality education, while poorer states may struggle to maintain basic services, leading to a deepening education gap.

One of the biggest concerns is the impact on students with disabilities. The Department of Education currently enforces laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, ensuring that students receive accommodations, specialized instruction, and protections against discrimination. If education is left entirely to the states, these protections may become inconsistent or disappear entirely, depending on state priorities and budgets.

The Fate of Special Education

Special education programs rely heavily on federal funding and oversight. Without the Department of Education, there is no guarantee that states will maintain these programs at the same level. Some states may continue funding special education services, but others may cut programs due to budget constraints or shifting political priorities.

If that happens, students who require individualized education plans (IEPs), speech therapy, occupational therapy, and other specialized support may no longer receive the assistance they need. Schools may attempt to integrate these students into general education classrooms without proper accommodations, which could leave them struggling to keep up. Teachers, already stretched thin, may not have the resources or training to support students with special needs effectively.

This would not only hurt students with disabilities but also impact classroom dynamics, as teachers would have to balance the needs of all students without additional support. In the long run, this could lead to lower graduation rates and fewer opportunities for students who rely on specialized education services.

My Thoughts

If the Department of Education is eliminated, I believe special education classrooms could disappear entirely, leaving students without the help they need. From my own experience, I know that if I hadn’t received the assistance I did, I wouldn’t have been able to graduate high school. That thought is heartbreaking because I see so much potential in students who rely on special education.

These students don’t lack intelligence—they simply need a different approach to learning. Removing special education programs would force them into regular classrooms without proper accommodations, causing them to fall behind. Instead of truly learning and enjoying their education, they’d struggle just to pass, growing frustrated and disconnected from school. This wouldn’t just make learning harder—it would reduce their chances of graduating altogether. Cutting special education isn’t just a bad decision; it would be a disservice to an entire group of students who deserve the opportunity to succeed.

A Question to Consider

If the Department of Education is eliminated, what alternative systems or policies could states implement to ensure students with disabilities still receive the support they need?

My Sources