U.S. Department of Education Places Half of Its Staff on Administrative Leave

• Administrative Leave Measure Affects Half of the Department of Education Staff.
• Decisions Reflect Commitment to Efficiency and Accountability.
• Uncertainty Over the Department’s Future Under the Trump Administration.

The U.S. Department of Education announced a drastic measure this Tuesday that will deeply affect its operational structure.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced that approximately half of the staff will be placed on administrative leave starting March 21.

This decision, according to McMahon, is part of her cabinet’s commitment to efficiency and accountability, ensuring that resources are focused on students, parents, and teachers.

The official statement also indicates that the temporary closure of the offices in Washington, scheduled for Wednesday, is due to security reasons.

Department of Education Announces Staff Administrative Leave

#BREAKING: The Department of Education just announced they are ELIMINATING 50% of their workforce as soon as TONIGHT, as the department is being wound down

Trump and DOGE are keeping their promise.

We’re sending education BACK to the states where it belongs! pic.twitter.com/tufbs5n0AW

– Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) March 11, 2025

An internal email leaked to national media instructed staff to leave the offices before six p.m., local time.

And to take their laptops with them, as access will not be allowed under any circumstances on Wednesday.

This directive comes at a time of great uncertainty for the Department of Education.

With the Republican administration seriously considering signing an executive order to completely dismantle the department.

The Department of Education announced Tuesday that it will be initiating a reduction in force, placing nearly 50% of its workforce on administrative leave beginning March 21.

More: https://t.co/9dt99vznz6 pic.twitter.com/j9sgcndko

– Newsnation (@Newsnation) March 11, 2025

According to reports from the Wall Street Journal, this measure is part of a broader effort to reduce federal agencies and the government workforce, giving more autonomy to states in educational matters.

Journalist Shelby Talcott, from digital Semafor, reported that half of the staff of the Department of Education is expected to be dismissed as part of these restructuring policies.

This situation arises after intense criticism from Republicans during Joe Biden’s tenure, according to EFE.

Particularly in relation to student loan policies and protections against sexual discrimination in education.

In summary, the U.S. Department of Education faces drastic changes that could have significant implications for its operation and its staff.

The measure to place half of the staff on administrative leave reflects a strategy to redirect resources and reform the national educational system.

However, it also generates uncertainty and concern among workers and observers of the educational field.

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