BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – Recently, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at abolishing the Department of Education, which has left many people curious about how such a move might play out.
The first section of President Trump’s executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education states, Regrettably, the attempt at managing American education via federal initiatives and funding—and the uncontrollable administrative apparatus these funds sustain—has clearly let down our kids, educators, and parents.
The proposal to defund and reform certain federal programs has led to varied views among educators, who also wonder about the potential impact on the country’s educational landscape in the coming years.
In North Dakota, similar to most states, school funding originates from both the state level and taxpayer contributions. Approximately only 10% of the financial support provided to educational institutions comes from the federal government. However, North Dakota United President Nick Archuleta emphasized that these funds play a crucial role.
They mainly support the most disadvantaged students," explained Archuleta. "This funding originates fromTitle I schools and reading initiatives. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, known as IDEA, operates within this framework. These resources are channeled through those means.
He stated that without federal funding to back these programs, the Department of Public Instruction would need to find methods to finance the continued provision of these services.
Archuleta mentioned that this isn't the first instance of budget reductions occurring. Back when President Clinton was in office, he too announced the end of expansive governmental operations and proceeded to cut down staff and services from various agencies that were considered non-essential.
The Department of Education came into existence in 1979 through an Act of Congress. Only another legislative action could fully abolish it.
The lead reporter contacted the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction but did not receive any reply.