The Trump administration has moved forward with significant staffing reductions at the Department of Education, which has sparked strong reactions from supporters and critics. The cuts come as part of the administration’s broader effort to downsize federal agencies, particularly in areas where it argues states should have greater control.

According to a report from The New York Times, hundreds of employees at the Department of Education were abruptly dismissed as part of a restructuring plan to reduce federal oversight in education policy. The move aligns with President Trump’s long-standing criticism of federal intervention in schools and reflects his push for education policy decisions to be handled at the state level rather than by Washington bureaucrats.

CNN reports that the administration argues these changes are necessary to streamline operations and eliminate what they describe as inefficiencies in the federal education system. A spokesperson for the White House stated that the goal is to empower states, local school boards, and parents to take a more active role in shaping educational outcomes.

However, the cuts have drawn significant backlash from teachers’ unions, education advocates, and Democratic lawmakers, who argue that federal oversight plays a crucial role in ensuring equal access to education and protecting vulnerable students. Critics have expressed concerns that these reductions could impact special education programs, funding for low-income schools, and oversight of federal education laws such as Title IX.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona, who has been vocal about his opposition to the cuts, warned that they could have long-term consequences for student outcomes. “We cannot afford to roll back the progress we’ve made in ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to quality education,” Cardona said in a statement.

The layoffs at the Department of Education mark one of the most aggressive federal agency downsizing efforts under the Trump administration so far. As the administration continues to implement its agenda, debates over the future role of the federal government in education policy are likely to intensify.