Statement by NJ Officials on President Trump’s Executive Order to Dismantle the U.S. Department of Education

Statement by Governor Murphy

“President Trump’s directive to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education is unconscionable and unconstitutional. This Executive Order will have disastrous ramifications — especially for our nation’s students.

“New Jersey receives approximately $1.2 billion in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Education, the vast majority of which supports low-income students and students with disabilities. By signing this Executive Order, the Trump Administration is endangering vital resources for K-12 students and risking increased costs for those pursuing higher education.

“Simply put, the Trump Administration is going out of its way to create chaos and raise costs for our nation’s families. I urge New Jersey’s Congressional delegation to protect federal funding and preserve the legally prescribed functions of the U.S. Department of Education. My Administration will take every possible step we can to support their efforts.”

Statement by Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer

“The Executive Order (EO) issued by the Trump Administration on March 20 calls for the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education. This does not change the New Jersey Department of Education’s (NJDOE) efforts to ensure all New Jersey students have equitable access to a high-quality education and achieve academic excellence. For several decades, the U.S. Department of Education has served as a valuable partner to New Jersey in protecting the rights of our students and funding critical supplemental programs for learners who need the most help. The details regarding how or whether these valuable services and programs will continue will require further dialogue. Meanwhile, the NJDOE stands ready to continue building on our record of providing school districts with the critical resources and supports they need to help all students unlock their full learning potential.

“Federal funding supplements the $12.1 billion the State provides in K-12 formula aid, as detailed in Governor Murphy’s FY26 budget proposal. The Governor has increased K-12 aid by 48 percent since the Administration took office – a record of unprecedented support for New Jersey public schools. Upholding every student’s right to a free public education is essential not only to New Jersey values, but to New Jersey law. Whether in funding or in ensuring access to supportive educational environments, the NJDOE will continue its longstanding efforts to foster a world-class education system that meets the needs of all students.”