Ft Wayne Times

Today, Congressman Jim Baird of Indiana's 4th District expressed his support for President Trump's recent Executive Order aimed at decentralizing educational control. The order mandates the Secretary of Education to initiate the closure of the Department of Education and transfer authority back to states, parents, and local communities. This move seeks to maintain essential services while returning decision-making power to more localized entities.

In his statement, Congressman Baird highlighted the intent behind the order: "President Trump has made it clear: we are putting parents back in the driver’s seat of their children’s education, not unelected bureaucrats in Washington, D.C." He pointed out that since the establishment of the Department of Education in 1979 during President Carter's administration, there have been no significant improvements in educational outcomes. Baird noted a decline in math and reading scores among 13-year-olds despite increased spending per student.

Baird also emphasized Indiana's proactive stance on school choice, noting its long-standing efforts to provide families with various educational options. He stated, "Indiana has been a leader in school choice for years, ensuring every Hoosier family has the freedom to choose the educational option that best fits their children’s needs." He views this Executive Order as a crucial step towards expanding school choice nationwide and enhancing educational results for students.