The Education Department has been a part of the US government since 1979. It was created to help schools and students across the country. However, some people wonder if it's really making a difference.  For years, the performance of students in the US has not improved much.  In 2013, even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the lowest-performing students were struggling. Many of these students had disabilities, came from poor families, or spoke English as a second language. Their grades were dropping fast.

The Education Department's own report card shows that only 30% of eighth-graders can read at or above their grade level. This number has not changed much in the last 30 years. The same is true for fourth-graders.  Some people think that getting rid of the Education Department could be a good idea. They argue that it might not be the best way to help students.  Some progressives who were around when the department was created had doubts about it. They thought it might not be the best way to help schools.

The US does not have a national curriculum. This means that each state and even each school can decide what to teach. This can lead to big differences in the quality of education. Some people worry that getting rid of the Education Department could mean less money for schools.  Others think that the money could be used in better ways.  Some people think that the government should focus on helping families and schools that need it the most.  This could mean giving money to families and schools that use proven education strategies.

The Education Department has been a part of the US government for a long time.  Some people think it's time to rethink how the government helps schools and students.  They argue that the money could be used in better ways.  Others think that the department is still needed.  They worry that getting rid of it could mean less money for schools.  The debate continues.  But one thing is clear: the performance of students in the US has not improved much in the last few decades.  Something needs to change.

What's the point of the Education Department?

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