Essential Education Programs That Deserve Preservation Amid Reforms

The United States has functioned without a federal Department of Education for over two centuries and could continue to operate without it today. Yet, during the 45 years that the department has been established, there has been minimal progress in student achievement. For instance, nine-year-olds are reading at levels similar to those seen in 1979, when the department was created.

The reality is that the existence of a cabinet-level agency focused solely on education has failed to enhance the academic performance of students, improve overall school quality, or raise educational achievement. Moreover, this has contributed to a dramatic surge in education spending.

It is time to reconsider the structure of this department. Proposals to reduce its status or integrate certain responsibilities within other federal agencies could be beneficial without negatively impacting students or the nation’s educational future. This assessment comes from two former secretaries of education; one served under President Ronald Reagan, while the other was appointed by President George H.W. Bush.

Recent Discussions on State Empowerment

Eliminating the Department of Education might pose serious risks, particularly concerning essential programs and missions that it currently manages. A thoughtful approach is critical, as we assess what should remain intact during any potential reforms.

Three Key Functions of the Education Department

Amid calls for reform, three vital functions of the Education Department warrant protection. Although all of these areas require significant improvements, they remain too crucial to discard. It is important to preserve these foundational elements of our education system.

The Nation’s Report Card

The Nation’s Report Card, created by the National Center for Education Statistics, serves as an essential tool for evaluating student performance. It collects data, administers key tests, and provides insights into how students perform in reading, mathematics, civics, and science. The information generated is indispensable for understanding the educational responsibilities assigned to the government more than a century ago.

In fact, the government’s role in collecting educational statistics dates back to a law enacted in 1867, intended to assess and promote educational quality across various states and territories. Even after all these years, the need for accurate and regularly reported educational data persists.

Addressing Civil Rights Violations

The second critical function involves safeguarding students’ civil rights. This responsibility transcends the superficial tracking of disparities often emphasized by the department in recent years. True civil rights violations must be addressed effectively.

For example, education officials must intervene when a student with disabilities does not receive the necessary support or when a qualified minority student faces barriers to college admission. While the Department of Justice could theoretically handle some of these issues, their current workload may preclude them from addressing these concerns adequately.

Financial Assistance for Schools

Furthermore, the Education Department manages the distribution of federal funds for various school and college programs. This aspect of the department’s responsibilities desperately needs reform. One promising approach could be to transition money from K-12 programs into block grants for states, enhancing local control.

In 2014, legislative proposals emerged allowing states to convert a significant portion of federal elementary and secondary education funds into scholarships for low-income students, facilitating their choice of school. Similar options were discussed for children with disabilities, which some states are already implementing.

As the trend toward school choice continues to grow, it is crucial to ensure that federal funding mechanisms align better with students’ needs. Current federal programs often utilize outdated formulas that can obscure the intended beneficiaries.

In contrast, federal Pell Grants move with students to their chosen educational institutions, providing necessary support. If such vouchers have proven effective in higher education, why not replicate this successful model to cultivate high-quality elementary and secondary schools?

The Path Forward

It is clear that the Department of Education possesses components that can and should be improved. However, we must not lose sight of the valuable programs that deserve preservation. The interplay of accountability, civil rights protection, and effective financial support must endure throughout potential reforms.

In summary, while there is significant discourse surrounding the future of the Department of Education, we must be cautious not to discard crucial resources while pursuing essential reforms. Instead of throwing the important aspects out with the bathwater, it is vital to ensure their survival and enhancement.

Lamar Alexander and Bill Bennett served as U.S. Secretary of Education for George H.W. Bush and Ronald Reagan, respectively. Lamar Alexander was also elected as both governor and U.S. senator from Tennessee, served as president of the University of Tennessee, and co-founded a law firm and two successful businesses.