• Megan Degenfelder discussed the dissolving of the Department of Education and what it means for Education in Wyoming

Last week on the Weekday Wake-Up, Megan Degenfelder, Wyoming State Superintendent of Public Instruction, discussed the implications of a pivotal executive order aimed at dissolving the federal Department of Education. This event, described by Degenfelder as a “historic event that happened last week,” marks a significant shift in the governance of education in the United States.

Degenfelder emphasized that this executive order represents “the next step in dismantling the federal department of education.” She expressed her long-standing support for local governance, stating, “I have always been very supportive of authority as local to the people as possible.” This sentiment reflects a growing belief among some state leaders that education should be managed more effectively at the state level, especially considering the federal department’s relatively recent establishment in 1979 and its mixed success nationwide.

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“We know Wyoming does it better,” Degenfelder asserted, countering concerns that the dissolution of the federal department equates to “gutting education.” Instead, she clarified that the aim is to remove the “middle man,” enabling more direct funding to states without federal bureaucratic delays.

Degenfelder reassured stakeholders that essential educational functions, including Special Education Programs and Title I funding, will remain intact. “It’s not dismantling education; it is relocating it in states,” she explained. The restructuring aims to empower local educators and streamline funding directly to classrooms, rather than through Washington, D.C.

Reflecting on the history of the federal Department of Education, Degenfelder noted that there has been opposition to federal oversight since its inception, particularly during President Reagan’s administration when efforts were made to eliminate it. She pointed out that reading literacy rates have declined under federal governance, indicating a need for change.

“Our states know best to handle governance. We cannot create a one-size-fits-all model,” Degenfelder stated, advocating for state innovation in educational practices.

“The best way that we can move the needle in academic achievements is letting states have the room to be innovative to do what works best for them.”

Looking forward, Degenfelder expressed optimism that the restructuring will not disrupt classroom activities but will instead accelerate the flow of funding to districts. “We stand ready in Wyoming. We are ready to go. Ready to be in the driver’s seat,” she affirmed, aiming to eliminate red tape and maximize resources for Wyoming students.

While the president and the secretary of education have not confirmed potential funding cuts, Degenfelder hopes the new system will allow states to access federal funds more rapidly. “We get money from the feds a lot more quickly and we can do more with it,” she noted, emphasizing the increased flexibility in aligning funds with community needs.

As Wyoming prepares for this new era in education, Degenfelder concluded, “It is a really exciting time in education. Wyoming does it best.” With local leaders poised to take charge, the future of education in the state looks promising.