A coalition of educators and advocacy groups has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the recent executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education. The lawsuit, launched by prominent organizations including the American Federation of Teachers and the NAACP, asserts that President Trump's actions exceed his constitutional authority and violate the Administrative Procedure Act. According to the The Hill, the complaint contends that the administration's steps constitute a "de facto dismantling" of the department without congressional consent.

The legal action follows Trump’s executive order directing Education Secretary Linda McMahon to initiate the closure of the agency, which was established in 1979 and cannot be dissolved without legislative approval. In accordance with this order, the administration has already reduced the department's workforce significantly, impacting essential services such as student loans and special education programs. Trump has proposed transferring oversight of these areas to other governmental bodies, including the Small Business Administration and the Health and Human Services Department, raising concerns among educators and social advocates about the viability and oversight of these functions.

In statements from the plaintiffs, the lawsuit argues that "dismantling the Department of Education would cause real harm—not only to our students and schools, but to communities across the country." Representatives from the educational sector assert that the department plays a vital role in ensuring equitable education opportunities and safeguarding civil rights within schools. Ilana Krepchin, a committee member from Somerville, Massachusetts, emphasized that the agency is a cornerstone of public education and its dismantling would lead to "enormous harm" to students and educators alike, as reported by The New York Times.

Even though Trump indicated that he would ensure critical services remain operational, the legal dispute underscores widespread concern that such moves could undermine essential support systems for students and educators. As this controversy unfolds, additional lawsuits from other educational organizations reflect growing resistance to the administration's plans. With significant implications for education policy, the outcome of these legal challenges could reshape the framework of federal education governance in the United States, as noted by Business Insider.