Coalition sues Trump administration over plans to dismantle education department

Advocacy groups have initiated legal action against the Trump Administration, challenging its efforts to dismantle the United States Department of Education. The lawsuit, filed by organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), National Education Association (NEA), and AFSCME Maryland Council 3, argues that these actions exceed executive authority and violate federal law.

Since taking office, the Trump Administration has taken steps to reduce staff and terminate contracts within the Department of Education. A significant move was made on March 11 when a department-wide reduction in force was implemented. President Donald Trump further escalated these efforts with an Executive Order on March 20, directing Secretary Linda McMahon to close the department and transfer its responsibilities to other agencies.

The complaint states: “Taken together, Defendants’ steps since January 20, 2025, constitute a de facto dismantling of the Department by executive fiat….” It emphasizes that only Congress has the power to eliminate or restructure federal agencies.

Mara Greengrass, a plaintiff in the case and parent of a child with disabilities, expressed concern over cuts impacting special education services. "Funding for special education and the Department’s oversight have been crucial in ensuring my son receives the quality education he—and every child in this country—deserves," she said.

Becky Pringle, President of NEA, criticized the administration's actions: "Nothing is more important than the success of students. America’s educators and parents won’t be silent as Donald Trump... try to steal opportunities from our students."

Derrick Johnson of NAACP highlighted potential impacts on vulnerable communities: "Education is power. By firing half of the workforce at the Department of Education, Trump is not only seeking to dismantle an agency — he is deliberately destroying the pathway many Americans have to a better life."

Patrick Moran from AFSCME Council 3 stressed Congress's role: "Congress created the Department of Education, and Congress controls its future — not billionaires Marylanders never voted for."

Robert Kim from Education Law Center pointed out legal concerns: “The Trump Administration’s effort to dismantle the Department of Education is not only illegal; it inflicts great harm on students.”

Student Defense President Aaron Ament added: “Donald Trump’s own Secretary of Education has acknowledged they can’t legally shut down the Department... It’s a brazen violation of law that will upend lives.”

The coalition seeks immediate judicial intervention to halt these efforts.