In March 2025, Linda McMahon, co-founder of WWE and former head of the Small Business Administration, was appointed as the U.S. Secretary of Education under President Donald Trump’s administration. Her tenure has been marked by ambitious and controversial reforms aimed at overhauling the American education system. This article delves into the key policies introduced by McMahon, their implications, and the reactions they’ve garnered.
Key Policies and Initiatives
1. Dismantling the Department of Education
One of McMahon’s most significant moves has been initiating steps to dismantle the Department of Education. An executive order signed by President Trump in March 2025 directed McMahon to facilitate the closure of the department, aiming to transfer authority over education to states and local communities. This move aligns with the administration’s broader goal of reducing federal oversight in education.
2. Promoting School Choice
McMahon has been a strong advocate for school choice, supporting the expansion of publicly funded vouchers to allow parents to enroll their children in private schools. This policy aims to increase competition and provide more options within the education system, though critics argue it may divert funds from public schools.
3. Restructuring Accreditation Standards
In April 2025, President Trump issued an executive order targeting higher-education accrediting agencies, criticizing their promotion of diversity as a form of unlawful discrimination. The order instructs McMahon to consider removing government approval from agencies that require colleges to demonstrate a commitment to diversity in gender, race, and ethnicity. This move has sparked debates about the role of diversity and inclusion in higher education.
4. Emphasis on Core Academic Subjects
McMahon’s reforms emphasize a return to core academic subjects such as math, reading, science, and history. She argues that focusing on these areas will better prepare students for the workforce and reduce the influence of what she perceives as ideological indoctrination in schools.
Impacts and Reactions
Supporters’ Perspective
Proponents of McMahon’s policies argue that reducing federal involvement in education empowers states and local communities to tailor education to their specific needs. They believe that promoting school choice and focusing on core subjects will lead to improved educational outcomes.
Critics’ Concerns
Opponents express concern that dismantling the Department of Education could lead to inconsistencies in educational standards across states and potentially undermine civil rights protections. The push to eliminate diversity and inclusion initiatives has also been criticized for potentially marginalizing underrepresented groups.
Conclusion
Linda McMahon’s tenure as Secretary of Education represents a significant shift in U.S. education policy, emphasizing decentralization, school choice, and a focus on core academic subjects. While supporters laud these changes as necessary reforms, critics warn of potential negative consequences, including reduced oversight and the marginalization of diversity initiatives. As these policies continue to unfold, their long-term impact on the American education system remains to be seen.