Virginia is Ready to close education department as governor touts readiness

With the federal government attempting to shut down the Department of Education, Virginia is now considering how the move will impact operations in the commonwealth.

State Democrats and some parents and advocates have expressed concern with President Donald Trump’s signing on Thursday of the executive order directing U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to close the agency and move specific operations to other federal agencies.

However, Republicans, including Gov. Glenn Youngkin, believe Virginia is ready for the opportunity that the executive order provides, giving states control over how they run public education.

“Virginia is ready to take full responsibility for K-12 education,” said Youngkin, in a statement on Thursday, adding that the commonwealth has created a “high-expectations” agenda that sets strict standards, holds schools accountable and directs resources to those in greatest need.

“We welcome the federal government’s shift of responsibility to the states — and we are grateful that President Trump’s executive order does just that,” Youngkin stated. “The EO also makes it clear that there will be no discrimination in the classrooms. We will continue to ensure every student graduates career-, college-, or military-ready.”

Looking ahead

Pending the litigation and Congressional battle expected to result from Trump’s order, Virginia could likely need additional support to continue providing the services and resources the federal agency has since its establishment in 1979, including ensuring equal educational opportunity and supporting schools, teachers, and research to improve learning outcomes.

Virginia Secretary of Education Aimee Rogstad Guidera said in a statement that while Trump’s order will ensure federal funding will arrive with fewer restrictions, it will also allow the commonwealth to “invest those resources in the most efficient and effective ways that lead to the ultimate goal of improving student outcomes.”

The state education department is also undergoing leadership changes, after Lisa Coons recently resigned as superintendent of public instruction.

Emily Anne Gullickson, former chief deputy secretary of education, will address the public for the first time as the interim superintendent at the Board of Education’s work session on Wednesday.

Board of Education President Grace Creasey said Trump’s move to shut down the nation’s education department “empowers” parents and reduces federal overreach.

“For too long, bureaucrats in Washington have dictated one-size-fits-all policies that fail to address the unique needs of the commonwealth’s students and schools,” Creasey said in a statement. “Returning decision-making authority and funding to the states can foster innovation, accountability, and better educational outcomes. This is about putting parents and state and local leaders back in charge of education.”