Updates on U.S. Department of Education (DOE)
On March 11, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) announced that it would initiate a reduction in force (RIF), affecting nearly 50% of its workforce. The staff impacted by the RIF are to be placed on leave beginning March 21st. According to the DOE, the Department will continue to manage key programs, including student loans, Pell Grants, and funding for special needs students, confirming student aid is unaffected. You can read more .
St. Edward's University leaders are closely monitoring this developing situation to determine its potential impacts on the university community. We are committed to keeping our community informed and advocating for policies that reflect our Holy Cross values and the university's mission.
Update: March 21, 2025
On Thursday, March 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order to begin dismantling the Department of Education and shifting control over education to state and local governments. Eliminating the Department of Education has been a long-standing Republican goal since its creation in 1980. While the order signals a major policy shift, fully dissolving the department would require congressional approval and face logistical and legal challenges. The Department of Education currently oversees billions in funding, federal student loans, special education programs and civil rights enforcement. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that critical functions, such as managing student loans and Pell grants, will remain in place for now.
