March 20, 2025: 11:00 p.m.:
March 20, 2025: Education Highlights
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President Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, aiming to return control over education to state and local governments. Essential programs like student loans and Pell Grants will continue under other federal agencies.
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The White House confirmed that despite the executive order to dismantle the Department of Education, student loan and Pell Grant programs will remain operational under federal oversight.
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Iowa’s private school enrollment has grown significantly since the introduction of the Education Savings Account program, allowing public funds to be used for private schooling. However, 44 rural counties lack non-public school options, raising concerns about equitable access.
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The dismantling of the Department of Education has cast uncertainty over the management of student loans, affecting over 40 million adults under 40 in the U.S. Experts express concerns about the department’s reduced capacity to manage these loans effectively.
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President Trump defended his education overhaul, emphasizing a shift to state and local control, surrounded by GOP governors and conservative organizations. Critics are concerned about potential negative impacts on school funding, college financial aid, and special education.
