Education Department to Downsize Nearly Half of Workforce in Major Restructuring
The Department of Education announced Tuesday evening plans to slash nearly 50% of its workforce, a move officials claim will not impact student services but is aimed at eliminating redundant roles. The cuts come shortly after billionaire Linda McMahon’s confirmation as Education Secretary, following her pledge to make the department “operate more efficiently.”
Key Workforce Reductions
- 259 staffers opted for deferred resignation.
- 313 staffers accepted a $25,000 voluntary separation incentive.
- 1,315 staffers affected by a reduction in force.
- 63 probationary employees had roles eliminated in February.
Affected employees will receive 90 days of full pay and benefits plus severance. Notifications were sent Tuesday evening, and the department’s main office was closed for safety on Wednesday.
Office Closures and Consolidation
- Regional offices in San Francisco, New York, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, and Dallas will be shut down.
- The Washington, D.C. presence will be reduced from three buildings to one.
The move follows President Trump’s ongoing efforts to dismantle the Education Department, including orders targeting diversity programs, transgender accommodations in schools, and expansion of school choice. Critics warn that these job cuts will harm vulnerable students. Despite the significant cuts, department officials insist that FAFSA operations, student aid, and civil rights investigations will remain unaffected.
