Judge Blocks Major Education Reform Plan, Citing Constitutional Concerns

A federal judge has temporarily blocked an ambitious effort to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education, stopping a plan that could have dramatically altered schools, student aid programs, and civil rights enforcement nationwide.

The executive order sought to shut down the department, eliminate thousands of positions, and shift its duties to other agencies. Under the proposal, student loan operations would move to the Treasury Department, while special education oversight would be reassigned to Health and Human Services.

Opponents argued the proposal would cause widespread disruption, threaten federal funding, and weaken protections for students with disabilities and civil rights. Several states, school systems, educators, and advocacy groups filed suit, claiming the president lacked authority to dissolve a department established by Congress.

The judge sided with the challengers, issuing a preliminary injunction that paused the order, required the reinstatement of affected employees, and blocked the transfer of departmental responsibilities.

In the ruling, the court said such sweeping changes would fundamentally rewrite existing laws and exceed executive power. The decision preserves programs that millions rely on, including student loans, special education services, and civil rights enforcement.

Supporters of the injunction welcomed the ruling as a defense of public education, while critics denounced it as judicial interference, arguing the plan would have shifted control back to states and local communities.

The administration has said it will appeal the decision. As legal proceedings continue, schools, educators, and students remain in limbo, with the case poised to shape future limits on presidential authority.