The U.S. Department of Education (ED) is a federal agency responsible for establishing policies related to federal financial aid for education, distributing and monitoring these funds, collecting data on American schools, and enforcing federal laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, disability, or age.
Key functions of the Department include:
- Financial Assistance: ED administers federal funding to support education at all levels, including grants, loans, and work-study programs to help students pay for college.
- Data Collection and Research: The department gathers and analyzes educational data to inform policy decisions and improve educational outcomes.
- Policy Enforcement: ED ensures compliance with federal educational laws, promoting equal access and prohibiting discrimination in educational institutions.
- Educational Support: The department provides resources and guidance to schools, students, and families to enhance the quality of education across the country.
Recent developments have significantly impacted the Department’s operations. In March 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to dismantle the Department of Education, resulting in substantial staffing reductions and raising concerns about the continuity of educational support and services.