01/29/2026
🇺🇸Trump Administration Pushes for School Choice Expansion Amid Declining Test Scores
The Trump administration is pushing for a major restructuring of the Department of Education, pointing to declining test scores and underperforming schools as reasons for change.
In recognition of National School Choice Week, the administration is emphasizing initiatives to broaden school choice, arguing that these efforts give parents and families greater control in choosing the most suitable educational opportunities for their children.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon spoke about the department’s push to expand school choice in President Trump’s second term, beginning with interagency agreements, including one with the Department of Labor. She said the goal is to reduce bureaucracy and improve efficiency, while encouraging Congress to make the reforms permanent.
The department has also set aside $500 million to support charter school growth and launched the Education Freedom tax credit, which allows donors to receive a full tax credit for contributions of up to $1,700 to scholarship organizations. The program aims to expand educational access for families with lower incomes.
The administration’s push for school choice aims to provide diverse educational options, including micro schools, public schools, private schools, religious schools, and homeschooling. McMahon expressed optimism about the potential benefits, saying, “I think we’re going to see children doing much better across the country.”
