An X user shared a post, writing, “The Department of Education began operating in 1980.” The data reveals the total cost of K-through-12 education for a single student, adjusted for inflation. It has increased from $57,602 in 1970 to $164,426 in 2010.
Musk reacted to the post, writing, “Massive increase in spending after the Department of Education was created with no actual improvement in education!”
Massive increase in spending after the Department of Education was created with no actual improvement in education! https://t.co/J72BUVqGsl
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 5, 2025
The SpaceX CEO‘s post sparked a discussion on the subject, with many suggesting it was time for DOGE to do something about it.
A user wrote, “I remembered when you said that it is easier to go to Mars than change the education system. Mars will come first, but for the sake of both, I hope it will be soon!”
Another said, “When the government gets involved, the cost goes through the roof with no improvement. We need way less government. Go DOGE.” The third user said, “Abolishing the Dept of Education is a huge win for the children!”
Earlier, multiple employees at the US Education Department were placed on paid administrative leave in reaction to Trump’s order prohibiting diversity, equity and inclusion programs in the federal government, The Associated Press reported.
According to the president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 252, Sheria Smith, it is unclear how many staff were put on leave and for what reasons.
It has also led to many wondering if Musk and DOGE were next thinking about slashing government spending on the public education system. This came just days after both Musk and Trump went after the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
On Monday, a DOGE team was at the Education Department working to implement Trump’s executive orders and agenda, according to Madison Biedermann, an Education Department official.
The Department of Education set up in 1979, is in charge of federal student loans and grants, as well as civil rights enforcement in schools.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
