On Wednesday, former President Donald Trump took significant steps in the field of education by signing two executive orders aimed at reforming how K-12 schools operate in America. One order focuses on halting federal funding for schools that promote critical race theory (CRT), while the other emphasizes the importance of school choice for families.
The first executive order, titled “Ending Radical Indoctrination in K-12 Schooling,” highlights the concerns many parents have about their children being taught divisive ideologies that they believe undermine American values. The order states that schools often silence parental input, creating an environment where children are pressured to embrace certain identities based solely on their race and other intrinsic characteristics.
In another pivotal move, Trump’s school choice initiative, named “Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families,” reflects a growing recognition of the failures within the public education system. According to recent reports, a significant portion of students—70% of eighth graders—are not meeting proficiency standards in reading and math. The order argues that when public education does not meet the needs of students, it negatively impacts not only families but the nation as a whole. In response, many states have implemented universal K-12 scholarship programs, allowing parents to select educational options that best fit their children.
In conjunction with these orders, within 60 days, the Secretary of Education is expected to provide guidance on how federal funds can support educational choice initiatives, aiming to empower parents in directing their children’s education.
Education advocate Corey DeAngelis highlighted that Trump’s actions resonate with a large number of parents who want more control over their children’s schooling. He emphasized that parents should have the primary say in their children’s education, rather than the government.
However, the new orders have faced opposition. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, criticized the school choice initiative, arguing that it poses a threat to public schools and their ability to provide a nurturing environment for all students. She voiced concerns that the move may prioritize tax cuts for the wealthy over essential resources for classrooms.
As the education landscape evolves, this recent development underscores the ongoing debate over how best to balance parental rights, educational standards, and equity in schooling across the nation.
