Appointing a Wrestling CEO: What's Next for Education?

President-elect Trump has picked Linda McMahon, former head of World Wrestling Entertainment, as the new education secretary. This choice has education experts worried. McMahon's background in wrestling and business might not prepare her for guiding federal education policies and budgets. She served on Connecticut's education board but had to correct a resume mistake about having an education degree. McMahon also faced a lawsuit related to WWE's handling of sexual abuse allegations. Education officials and politicians are concerned about the impact on students, particularly those with special needs or from low-income backgrounds. The U. S. Department of Education manages important programs like Title I and federal student loans. If the department is eliminated, as Trump has proposed, it could significantly affect these programs. Critics argue that education should remain a federal priority, with experts ensuring laws like Title IX are enforced. The future of education funding and standards is uncertain, and many fear that states might not prioritize all students equally without federal oversight.