The Department of Education has slashed nearly half its workforce in a massive restructuring effort that aligns with the Trump administration’s goal to potentially dismantle the federal education agency.
Key Takeaways
- The Department of Education has fired 1,315 employees, reducing its workforce by nearly 50% from its original 4,133 employees.
- Affected staff will receive full pay and benefits through June 9, with additional severance and retirement benefits.
- Secretary Linda McMahon stated the restructuring aims to improve efficiency without impacting student loans, Pell Grants, or funding for special needs programs.
- The layoffs align with President Trump’s intention to potentially dissolve the department, though complete dismantling requires congressional approval.
- The move has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats while Republicans support it as addressing redundancy and inefficiency.
Massive Workforce Reduction Impacts Thousands
In a sweeping move that fundamentally reshapes the Department of Education, officials have announced the termination of 1,315 workers, reducing the department to approximately half its original size. Beyond these direct layoffs, an additional 572 employees accepted separation packages, and 63 probationary workers were terminated, bringing the total workforce reduction to nearly 2,000 positions. The remaining 2,183 employees received notification about significant changes to work priorities as the department undergoes this dramatic restructuring.
The “reduction in force” (RIF) notices began distribution at 6 p.m., prompting department offices in Washington, D.C. and regional locations to close temporarily for security reasons. As part of the consolidation effort, six communications offices will be merged, leases in major cities will be terminated, and department buildings in Washington, D.C. will be consolidated. Additionally, telework agreements have largely been eliminated as remaining employees are called back to offices.
The Department of Education initiated mass layoffs on Tuesday night, reducing its workforce by nearly 50%, sources told ABC News. https://t.co/BOtgmWDahO
— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) March 12, 2025
Administration Priorities and Employee Support
Education Secretary Linda McMahon defended the workforce reduction as a strategic move toward greater efficiency. “Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents and teachers,” said McMahon in her official announcement. Department officials emphasized that the restructuring will not negatively impact critical functions such as student loans, Pell Grants, special needs funding, or competitive grant making.
Affected staff will be placed on administrative leave beginning March 21, during which they will continue to receive full pay and benefits until June 9. The department has also arranged for severance and retirement benefits for those impacted. The downsizing affects every sector of the agency but primarily targets internal roles, with department officials stating they are maintaining core functions that directly serve students, schools, and families.
Political Context and Future Implications
The substantial workforce reduction aligns with President Trump’s previously stated intention to potentially dismantle the Department of Education. While an executive order to dissolve the department is expected, complete dismantling requires congressional approval with 60 Senate votes, a hurdle unlikely to be cleared given Democratic opposition. The Education Department, established in 1979, currently manages approximately $240 billion annually and enforces non-discrimination policies, distributes federal financial aid, and supports federal college loan programs.
The restructuring has drawn sharp partisan reactions. Republican Senator Bill Cassidy has supported the move, asserting it addresses redundancy while maintaining the department’s “ability to carry out its statutory obligations.” Meanwhile, Democrats including Senator Bernie Sanders and former committee chair Patty Murray have criticized the layoffs as undermining critical resources for students and educators. Education advocates note that the department’s funding represents less than 10% of public school funding, with the majority coming from state and local taxes.
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Education Department Fires 1,300 Workers, Gutting Its Staff
Education Department announces it’s cutting nearly 50% of workforce
Department of Education lays off nearly 50% of its workforce
