Introduction:
As parents, educators and students alike prepare for the new academic year, it is essential to have an understanding of the Secretary of Education’s role and responsibilities. Education is a central issue that impacts us all, and the Secretary of Education plays a vital role in shaping and overseeing education policy in America. In this article, we explore the job description, qualities, and nuances of the current Secretary of Education, and his/her predecessors, as well as their impact and controversies surrounding the position.
In-Depth Profile of the Current Secretary of Education
The current Secretary of Education is Miguel Cardona, who took office on March 2, 2021, following his nomination and confirmation by the Senate. Born and raised in Meriden, Connecticut, Cardona began his educational journey in public schools and went on to earn degrees from Central Connecticut State University, the University of Connecticut, and the University of Bridgeport.
Before his appointment as the Secretary of Education, Cardona served in the Meriden Public Schools for over 20 years, rising through the ranks from a fourth-grade teacher to Connecticut’s Commissioner of Education. His professional career has been marked by a dedication to ensuring equitable education opportunities for all students and addressing the achievement gap.
Cardona’s policy stances on education-related issues reflect his belief that education is a fundamental human right. He wants to see student success measured by more than just standardized test scores and believes that students should be prepared not only for college but also for careers and civic engagement. He also supports traditional public schools while advocating for innovative approaches to education.
Who Runs America’s Education System
The Secretary of Education leads the United States Department of Education and serves as the principal advisor to the President on all education-related policy matters. The Department of Education is responsible for conducting educational research, administering educational programs, and enforcing federal educational laws.
Some of the specific responsibilities of the Secretary of Education include developing and implementing national education policy, administering federal financial aid programs and grants, managing the national accreditation system, and conducting research on effective teaching and learning practices.
The Secretary of Education: Impact and Power at All Levels of Government
As the head of the Department of Education, the Secretary of Education has a significant level of power and impact on American education at all levels of government. This includes influencing education policy at the federal, state, and local levels.
Federal level impact and power: The Secretary of Education has the power to disburse billions of dollars in federal funding. The Department of Education’s budget for the 2021 fiscal year was approximately $68.5 billion, which goes directly to public schools and higher education institutions across the United States. In addition, the Department of Education can also issue federal regulations that impact education policy and practice.
State level impact and power: The Secretary of Education can affect education policy and funding at the state level by enforcing federal educational laws, regulations, and standards. This includes the implementation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Impact and power at the local level: The Secretary of Education’s influence also extends to the local level, where schools and districts rely heavily on federal funding to provide educational services. The Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education oversees the distribution of funds to local educational agencies, and the Secretary of Education has the power to withhold or disperse these funds.
Exploring the Controversies Surrounding the Current Secretary of Education and Their Policies
Controversies surrounding the Secretary of Education are not new. Many individuals and groups have criticized Cardona’s appointment and policies, from his handling of the reopening of schools amidst COVID-19 to his implementation of school discipline policies.
Some critics argue that the Department of Education has overstepped its authority and failed to allocate funding equitably. Others criticize the Secretary’s position on school choice and his support for charter schools. Additionally, there are concerns that the Secretary’s position on standardized testing may limit educators’ autonomy and lead to excessive reliance on testing to evaluate student learning.
It is important to note that these controversies and criticisms are not exclusive to the current Secretary of Education and that previous Secretaries of Education have faced similar controversies and debates.
Comparing Secretaries of Education: How They’ve Shaped American Education in the Past, Present, and Future
From Shirley Hufstedler, the first Secretary of Education under President Jimmy Carter, to Betsy DeVos, who served under President Donald Trump, every Secretary of Education has left their mark on American education. Understanding the legacy and impact of previous Secretaries is essential in predicting future policy changes and in understanding how education policy has developed over time.
Many previous Secretaries have had a significant impact on education policy, such as Richard Riley, who focused on expanding technology resources and literacy in schools, and John B. King Jr., who advocated for teacher preparation and the implementation of Common Core State Standards.
While some past Secretaries have been celebrated for their contributions to education, others have faced significant criticism, such as Betsy DeVos, who faced backlash for her alleged lack of knowledge on public education and her support for school vouchers and private schools.
Breaking Down the Nomination and Confirmation Process for the Secretary of Education: What You Need to Know
Before someone can serve as Secretary of Education, they must be nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The process can take several months, and it can be contentious, as it was with Betsy DeVos’s appointment in 2017.
The nomination process begins with the President considering potential candidates and consulting with lawmakers, educators, and educational organizations. Once a candidate is selected, they must complete a rigorous background check, submit financial disclosures, and complete a series of interviews.
After Senate confirmation hearings, the Senate will then vote on the nomination. It requires a simple majority vote for confirmation, which means that the Vice President may cast the tie-breaking vote, if necessary. Upon confirmation, the Secretary of Education is appointed for a four-year term, subject to reappointment by the President.
Conclusion
The Secretary of Education plays a crucial role in shaping educational policy in America at all levels. Understanding their role, impact, and controversies is essential for educators, students, and parents alike. By knowing the nomination process, we can anticipate the future of American education policy, which will shape the country for years to come.
As a call to action, let us remember that our collective voice, in collaboration with educational organizations and lawmakers, can help shape educational policies that best serve all students. As we approach the new academic year, let us keep pushing for equitable access to quality education.
