This Order Was So Strong, Schools Won’t Forget It Anytime Soon!

In a sweeping move to reshape the nation’s education policies, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order prohibiting K-12 schools from teaching critical race theory (CRT). The order warns that schools continuing to incorporate CRT-related lessons may risk losing federal funding. The administration insists the decision aims to refocus classroom instruction on core subjects like math and reading.

Shifting the Focus in Education

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized Trump’s vision for a curriculum that strengthens national pride and prepares students for their future careers.

“The president believes American education should focus on cultivating patriotic citizens who are ready for the workforce,” Leavitt stated.

The decision follows the latest National Assessment of Educational Progress report, which revealed a troubling decline in reading scores and stagnant math performance across the country in 2024. The White House argues that educational priorities must return to foundational subjects, rather than discussions on systemic inequality and race relations.

Supporters Applaud, Critics Push Back

Supporters of the ban, including Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), contend that CRT distorts historical facts and misrepresents the country’s founding principles.

“I don’t want that propaganda taught to my kids or any kid in Missouri,” Hawley said.

However, the executive order has sparked intense criticism from Democratic lawmakers and educators. Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) dismissed the measure as a political tactic rather than a genuine policy effort.

“I don’t know a single school in Michigan that teaches critical race theory,” Slotkin said, arguing that policymakers should focus on reversing learning losses caused by the pandemic.

A Nation Struggling with Education Decline

Recent federal data shows that student achievement has suffered significantly in the aftermath of COVID-19, despite the government investing $190 billion to support public schools during the crisis. Many experts say that rather than targeting CRT, efforts should be directed toward addressing these educational setbacks.

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, stressed the need for greater investment in educators.

“Let’s actually give the teachers the support they need to do the job to help lift up all of America’s children,” Weingarten said.

A Broader Battle Over Education Policy

While this executive order is a defining moment in the ongoing education debate, Republicans in Congress continue to push for a reduced federal role in local school systems. Many GOP lawmakers advocate for scaling back the Department of Education, arguing that curriculum decisions should be made at the state and local levels.

The debate over CRT is far from over, as educators, lawmakers, and parents remain divided over the role race-related discussions should play in the classroom. With the 2024 election season intensifying, education policy will likely remain a heated issue on the national stage.