The phrase encapsulates a policy direction undertaken during the Trump administration focused on decreasing financial resources allocated to the federal Department of Education. This involved proposed and enacted reductions in various programs administered by the Department, impacting areas such as K-12 education, higher education, and vocational training. For instance, proposals included reductions in funding for teacher training programs and student loan forgiveness initiatives.
Policy changes concerning federal educational funding are significant because they directly affect the allocation of resources across states and local school districts. Historically, federal funding has aimed to address inequities in educational opportunities and support specific initiatives deemed to be in the national interest. Changes in this funding landscape can therefore influence the quality of education available to students, the accessibility of higher education, and the ability of states and localities to implement educational reforms.