The Education department is a cabinet-level department of the United States government that acts as an advocate for students, teachers and schools. Its primary aims are to promote student success and prepare them for global competitiveness by cultivating educational excellence and guaranteeing equal access to quality instruction.
The Department of Education (DOE) is the federal agency responsible for setting policy, administering aid to education and coordinating its use. Additionally, DOE assists President Obama in carrying out his education initiatives and enforcing laws passed by Congress.
It is the largest and most influential agency of the United States government, serving as a major hub for educational research, funding and supporting schools throughout America, providing financial aid to help families pay for college, and educating citizens to become productive members in an ever-evolving global environment. Through this work, they ensure children and adults become productive citizens who can contribute positively to society in its changing context.
Since 1867, the department has been an important element in American education. President Andrew Johnson established it to collect data about schools throughout America; however, its role was reduced in 1868 due to fears that too much authority would be given to the department over local educational establishments.
One of the most visible aspects of the department’s work is direct student financial aid. It is awarded to state and local education agencies, private schools, and other institutions that assist disadvantaged students.
The DOE provides funds for special education programs, teacher and principal training, school improvement projects, as well as the issuance of certificates and degrees to teachers. Furthermore, research is conducted into various aspects of education like student achievement rates, teacher quality and technology use.
The education department is led by the secretary of education, who advises the President on all federal educational plans, policies and programs. As a Cabinet member appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate, this individual serves as an influential voice within education policy-making circles.
Assistant Secretaries and Directors oversee the department’s staff offices, which specialize in different areas of education. These include:
Post-secondary Education
The Office of Post-secondary Education formulates policy and coordinates various activities related to post-secondary education, such as high schools, community colleges, vocational/technical colleges, university/professional college programs. They offer support for institutional development projects; student services; housing & facilities needs; veterans’ affairs; cooperative education initiatives; international & graduate degrees for African Americans; foreign language & area studies programs; innovative teaching methods & practices – plus grants for compensatory, migrant/Indian and drug free initiatives.
Elementary and Secondary Education
The Office of Elementary and Secondary Education develops policy, directs, and coordinates education for preschool through 12th grade students. This office awards grants to state education agencies and local school districts for compensatory, migrant, Indian, drug-free programs as well as early childhood education projects and special education services at no or reduced price to eligible low-income children.
Education is essential for society’s stability and growth. It raises living standards, encourages people to vote or volunteer, buy local products and services, stay informed about their communities, lowers crime rates and eliminates poverty. The more educated a person is, the better equipped they will be to tackle challenges both professionally and personally.
