Department of Education Initiates Major Workforce Reduction

As part of its final mission, the Department of Education has initiated a significant reduction in force (RIF), impacting nearly 50% of its workforce. The affected staff will be placed on administrative leave starting Friday, March 21st.

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated, “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. I appreciate the work of the dedicated public servants and their contributions to the Department. This is a significant step toward restoring the greatness of the United States education system.”

Despite the workforce reduction, the Department of Education will continue to deliver on all statutory programs under its purview, including formula funding, student loans, Pell Grants, funding for special needs students, and competitive grantmaking.

All divisions within the Department are affected by the reduction, with some requiring significant reorganization to better serve students, parents, educators, and taxpayers.

When President Trump was inaugurated, the Department’s workforce stood at 4,133 workers. Following today’s actions, the workforce will total approximately 2,183 workers. Nearly 600 employees accepted voluntary resignation opportunities and retirement over the past seven weeks, including:

• 259 employees accepted the Deferred Resignation Program
• 313 employees accepted the Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment

Remaining employees impacted by the reduction in force will be placed on administrative leave starting Friday, March 21. Pursuant to regulatory requirements and the Department’s collective bargaining agreement, all impacted employees will receive full pay and benefits until June 9th, along with substantial severance pay or retirement benefits based on their length of service.

The announcement has elicited swift reactions from various educational stakeholders, each expressing distinct concerns. Critics argue that the reduction could undermine the department’s ability to oversee critical programs. For example, the Office for Civil Rights, which investigates discrimination complaints, and the Student Aid Office, which manages federal loans and grants, are both expected to face significant staffing cuts.

Maria Gonzalez, a special education teacher in Texas, voiced her concerns: “This isn’t just about bureaucracy—it’s about real people. When federal oversight weakens, students pay the price”.

Additionally, stakeholders worry about the long-term consequences for education policy. Historically, the Department of Education has spearheaded initiatives to close achievement gaps, promote STEM education, and address teacher shortages. A leaner workforce may force the department to scale back ambitious projects or outsource responsibilities to state agencies, which vary widely in resources and expertise.