OKC Standard

The Department of Education has come under scrutiny in a recent op-ed by U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin, published by The Daily Wire. Senator Mullin argues that despite significant financial investment, the Department has failed to improve educational outcomes for American students.

Senator Mullin highlights that since its establishment in 1979, the Department has spent over $1 trillion, yet national test scores have declined. "By dismantling the Department of Education, we will return power to where it belongs: states, parents, and teachers," said Sen. Mullin.

According to data from the Nation's Report Card, mathematics and reading scores for 13-year-olds are at their lowest in decades. Per-pupil spending has increased by more than 245% since the 1970s without corresponding improvements in student performance.

College costs have risen by 155% since the Department's inception, with many graduates facing significant debt and struggling to find jobs requiring their degrees. Funding for career and technical education has decreased by 50%, while funding for Indian education and schools serving military families has also been reduced.

Senator Mullin criticizes the Biden administration for exacerbating these issues, citing wasteful spending on grants promoting "radical ideologies" and burdensome regulations adding $3.9 billion in costs. He argues that President Trump is implementing necessary reforms by canceling grants promoting divisive agendas and returning control to states and local entities.

"The Constitution never envisioned a federal role in education — it’s a responsibility reserved for the states," stated Sen. Mullin. He envisions an educational system focused on core subjects like math and reading rather than ideological pursuits.

Mullin asserts that dismantling the Department would empower teachers and parents while freeing schools from bureaucratic constraints. He believes this approach will lead to improved educational outcomes and greater accountability at state levels.

Despite potential criticism of this strategy as harmful to students, Senator Mullin maintains that Washington's longstanding involvement has been ineffective. "It’s time to try something new," he concludes, emphasizing trust in states and parents to deliver quality education.

With President Trump's leadership, Mullin argues that these changes represent not just reform but reclamation of education in America.