Uncertainty looms over Central Oregon schools as U.S. Department of Education could be shut down

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday to end the U.S. Department of Education, saying he was giving power back to the states: "My administration will take all lawful steps to shut down the department. We're going to shut it down, and shut it down as quickly as possible."

"Back to the states where it belongs," said President Trump at an address, "And this is a very popular thing to do. But much more importantly, it's a commonsense thing to do," said the president.

The President pointed to the department for the nation's poor academic performance, saying the country is one of the top spenders in the world for education, but remains last in performance.

The department sends billions to public school low-income students and special education and manages student loans.

But how will this cut affect Central Oregon schools?

School districts across the High Desert say there's still much uncertainty.

Bend-La Pine Schools Communications Director Scott Maben told KTVZ News the district will be watching and says it's still too early to know the effects. 

Crook County School Board Scott Cooper told KTVZ News $1 million in funding that helps special education students could be lost.

President Trump said special education funding and student loans would be protected, giving the responsibility to other agencies. 

Education performance in Central Oregon has shown an increase in graduation rates for many rural districts, including Crook County. According to the Oregon Department of Education, Bend-La Pine Schools remain far above state averages, though the state ranks among the worst in the country.

Now, the executive order may need to pass Congress for approval before the department can be dismantled.