The Department of Education (DOE) is a cornerstone of the U.S. education system, providing vital funding and oversight to schools across the nation.
However, recent discussions about dismantling the department, particularly under President Donald Trump’s executive order, have left many in Missouri concerned about the future of public education in the state.
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and other educational institutions are now facing uncertainty over how these potential changes could impact federal funding, the quality of education, and the accessibility of higher education.
What Does Dismantling the Department of Education Mean?
While it would take an act of Congress to completely eliminate the Department of Education, executive orders from the President can significantly alter the department’s size and scope.
In this case, the executive order issued by President Trump aimed at shrinking the department has sparked concerns across various states, including Missouri, about how it will affect funding and educational programs.
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) relies heavily on federal funding to support local schools. About 27% of DESE’s budget comes from the U.S. Department of Education, making the state vulnerable to cuts if the federal department is reduced or dissolved.
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Missouri’s DESE Budget (FY 2025) | $8.7 billion |
| Federal Funding Portion | 27% of DESE’s budget comes from federal funds |
| Federal Funds Usage | Primarily for food programs, assistance for children living in poverty, and support for students with disabilities |
| Governor’s Stance | Governor Mike Kehoe supports reducing federal government size |
| Public Opinion | 52% of Missouri voters oppose dismantling the DOE |
Potential Impacts on Missouri’s K-12 Education
If the federal government’s role in education is reduced, Missouri’s K-12 schools could face significant challenges. Kathy Steinhoff, a former educator and Democratic Representative in Missouri, highlighted the importance of federal oversight and funding in ensuring educational equity across the nation.
Federal funding has been critical for providing support to schools in underprivileged areas, offering free meals, and assisting students with disabilities.
A reduction in federal support could lead to:
- Increased disparities in educational opportunities between wealthier and poorer districts.
- Cuts to special education programs and services for students with disabilities.
- Limited access to nutrition programs, which are critical for children from low-income families.
- Fewer resources for technology and educational tools needed to support modern learning environments.
Impact on Higher Education in Missouri
It is still unclear how President Trump’s executive order could impact higher education in Missouri. The University of Missouri, for example, is closely monitoring the situation.
The financial aid systems provided by the Department of Education, including student loans and grants, are vital for many students pursuing higher education. Without federal support, students may struggle to afford college, leading to decreased enrollment in institutions.
Christopher Ave, a spokesperson from the University of Missouri, stated that the university encourages prospective students to continue filling out their financial aid applications through studentaid.gov, assuring them that the institution will continue to support students through this uncertain period.
Potential issues that could arise include:
- Increased difficulty for students to access financial aid.
- Rising tuition costs due to the reduction of federal grants and loans.
- Less support for low-income students seeking higher education opportunities.
Governor Kehoe’s Perspective on Education Cuts
Governor Mike Kehoe supports the idea of shrinking the federal government, arguing that it would lead to a more efficient and cost-effective system.
From a conservative viewpoint, he believes that right-sizing the government would be beneficial for Missouri in the long run.
However, his stance conflicts with the concerns of educators and many voters in the state, as shown in the recent St. Louis University poll, where 52% of Missouri voters expressed opposition to dismantling the Department of Education.
The possible dismantling of the Department of Education could have profound implications for both K-12 education and higher education in Missouri.
While Governor Mike Kehoe and other conservatives support reducing the size of the federal government, Kathy Steinhoff and other educators emphasize the importance of federal funding in maintaining equity and access to quality education.
Missouri’s educational system is highly dependent on federal support, and any reduction in this funding could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
As Missouri lawmakers continue to debate the issue, it is crucial for citizens and educational leaders to stay informed about how these changes may impact the future of Missouri’s students.