Yesterday, Linda McMahon, former WWE executive and President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Education, faced the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee for her confirmation hearing.
McMahon advocated dismantling the Department of Education, aligning with the administration’s push to return control to states. She emphasized that such a move would require congressional action and assured lawmakers and those watching that essential programs like Title I school funding, Pell Grants, and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding would continue. However, McMahon’s limited education experience and support for private school vouchers have raised concerns among educators. Critics worry that her nomination signals a move toward privatizing public education, which Texas AFT has previously released dossiers exposing the billionaires bankrolling school privatization.
During the hearing, McMahon faced scrutiny over her commitment to adhering to congressional mandates and controversial policies, including those affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Notably, she avoided detailed stances on controversial topics
As educators dedicated to strengthening public education, we have many questions about how McMahon’s priorities and the administration’s avowed commitment to dismantling the DOE will affect Texas schools. Will McMahon protect federal funding for community colleges and ensure that voucher funds are not misused for non-educational expenses? How will she advocate for adequate working conditions, pay, and benefits for all educators? Most importantly, will she give our public schools, communities, and kids the necessary resources to thrive?
These are questions we will explore on Tuesday, March 4, in a livestreamed town hall about how the potential closure of the Department of Education could affect our Texas schools and communities. Join us on our Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram pages on March 4 for the conversation. And submit your questions ahead of time via Mobilize.
Funding public schools equitably and adequately is the most effective way to provide opportunities for all children. Now is the time for strong national leadership to ensure public schools receive the funding and support they need to provide every student with a high-quality education.