Janice R. Andrews
Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has slashed $982 million from the U.S. Department of Education by canceling outside contracts, sparking controversy and fear among staff. The cuts, primarily targeting the Institute of Education Sciences, eliminated $881 million from 89 contracts, many of which funded studies on student learning, teaching strategies, and educational trends.
The move has left Education Department employees reeling, with some describing the atmosphere as “hysterical.” A staff notice clarified that contracts tied to statutory functions would be rebid, assuring that the College Scorecard—a tool for comparing colleges—remains unaffected. Additionally, $101 million in training grants for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs were axed.
President Donald Trump, who has long advocated for dismantling the Education Department, praised Musk’s efforts. “Nobody had any idea it was that bad, that sick, and that corrupt,” Trump said, emphasizing the need to root out waste and abuse. Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to collaborate with Musk’s team, further solidifying DOGE’s role in reshaping government spending.
Musk defended the cuts, stating, “It’s really just saying, let’s look at each of these expenditures and say, is this actually in the best interest of the people?” DOGE employees are now expanding their efforts across other federal agencies, with more cuts expected at the Education Department.
Trump’s broader vision includes shifting college student loans to a separate agency and redirecting federal education funding to states. He even quipped about putting Education Secretary Linda McMahon “out of a job,” as her Senate confirmation hearings begin this week.
Meanwhile, government workers and activists rallied in Washington, D.C., at a “Save the Civil Service” event hosted by the American Federation of Government Employees, protesting the sweeping changes.
As DOGE continues its mission to trim federal spending, the Education Department faces an uncertain future, with critics warning of potential long-term impacts on education research and DEI initiatives. The cuts mark a significant step in Trump’s campaign promise to decentralize education funding and reduce federal oversight.
