Trump’s Vision: Returning Education to the States
WEST VIRGINIA (WCHS) — Former President Donald Trump has announced his intention to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, arguing that doing so will benefit students by returning control to the states.
“We’re going to be returning education very simply back to the states where it belongs,” Trump stated on Friday during a signing ceremony.
Concerns Over Federal Funding Cuts in West Virginia
However, some educators in West Virginia are questioning whether this move would work in the state.
High school civics teacher Cullen Hencke expressed concerns about how eliminating the department could impact students, particularly those who rely on federally funded programs.
“A lot of West Virginia kids get help from reading interventionists, special education aides, and other supplementary staff who receive significant funding from the federal government,” Hencke said.
Trump’s Assurances on Key Education Programs
Trump reassured that certain essential programs would still receive funding, including Pell Grants, Title I funding, and resources for children with disabilities and special needs.
Despite this, Hencke remains skeptical about the potential disruptions at the local level.
“If people see instability and uncertainty in the teaching profession, they may look elsewhere—either outside of our state or outside of teaching entirely. Chaos and uncertainty won’t lead to better outcomes for kids,” he warned.
Political Reactions and West Virginia’s Education Standing
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey, however, voiced support for Trump’s plan, tweeting in favor of the decision.
According to the 2024 Kids Count Data Book, West Virginia ranked 48th out of 50 states in education outcomes, raising concerns about how the loss of federal oversight and funding could impact students.
Impact on West Virginia’s Federal Education Budget
The West Virginia Department of Education declined to comment on the proposal but noted that the state received approximately $470 million in federal funding for various educational programs in the 2025 fiscal year.
