The U.S. is moving to expand school choice. Could it impact Canada? [Video]

Having mused that he hopes his education secretary pick will “put herself out of a job,” U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly vowed to shutter the U.S. Education Department. He’s already moved to redirect federal funding toward expanding school choice in America’s K-12 system. Here’s a look at the issue and whether it could influence schools in Canada.

Can Trump really axe the Department of Education?

In the U.S., education is largely the responsibility of state governments, which guide local school districts in running schools. States primarily fund K-12 schools, set curriculum and graduation requirements, and regulate teachers. 

Federally, the Department of Education supports states with policy recommendations, collects education data and funds programs typically linked to equity, like grants for K-12 schools to serve students with disabilities or those from lower-income families. The biggest slice of the department’s funding actually goes to postsecondary, such as the Federal Student Aid program, grants to minority-serving colleges and education and …