WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon has announced three proposed priorities for the Department of Education’s discretionary grants, marking a sharp shift in federal education policy. The priorities, unveiled on Thursday, aim to promote evidence-based literacy, expand educational choice, and return decision-making power to states.
“Discretionary grants coming from the Department of Education will now be focused on meaningful learning and expanding choice, not divisive ideologies and unproven strategies,” said McMahon. She emphasized the urgency of addressing declining student performance, particularly in math and reading, by realigning focus on foundational skills and empowering state-led initiatives.
Key among the proposed priorities is evidence-based literacy, which encourages instruction grounded in the science of reading. This approach emphasizes structured teaching practices, including phonics, vocabulary building, and reading comprehension strategies, to improve literacy outcomes nationwide.
The second priority aims to expand educational choice by fostering diversity in learning opportunities. Proposals under this priority include support for charter schools, innovative teaching models, open enrollment, and programs like apprenticeships and accelerated learning. Flexible tools such as Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and home-based education are also part of the plan to give families more control over their children’s education.
Finally, the third priority seeks to “return education to the states.” This initiative prioritizes state-led governance in federal grant programs, reducing administrative burdens at the federal level while reinforcing local control. This policy signals a move away from federally driven frameworks to systems tailored to individual state needs.
The Supplemental Priorities will be open for a 30-day comment period, during which public input will be collected and reviewed. McMahon has described the expedited timeline for implementation as unprecedented, noting that her administration is acting decisively to address critical education challenges.
Once finalized, these priorities will shape future grant competitions, with McMahon also signaling the potential introduction of additional priorities later this year. This proactive approach aims to reshape education policy for greater local control and improved student outcomes, advancing goals aligned with President Trump’s broader vision for education reform.
“Americans need confidence that their schools are preparing students for success,” McMahon stated, emphasizing her commitment to aligning federal funding with proven strategies and practical solutions.
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