American students face widening achievement gaps and learning losses intensified by the pandemic, raising concerns about the nation’s educational performance in math, reading, and science. At the same time, debates over the role of the federal government, including proposals to reduce or eliminate the Department of Education (ED), have intensified. This brief examines the ED’s responsibilities, evaluates its strengths and weaknesses, and explores policy reforms to improve student outcomes and strengthen the nation’s education system.

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December 12, 2025