The US Department of Education has announced a reduction of almost 50% of its staff.

The U.S. Department of Education is expected to cut almost 50% of its staff. The relevant document was published on the website of the American department on March 11.

"Today, the Ministry of Education initiated a staff reduction (RIF), which will affect almost 50% of employees," the statement said.

The text of the document also clarifies that the department's staff who have been laid off will be placed on administrative leave from March 21. The U.S. Department of Education will continue to implement all statutory programs, including student loans, Pell grants, funding for students with special needs, and competitive grant provision.

"Today's staff reductions reflect the Department of Education's commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed to where they are needed most: students, parents, and teachers," said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.

On the day of the inauguration of US President Donald Trump, the staff of the ministry was 4,133 people. After today's actions, its number will be about 2,183 people. About 600 people have been included in the staff reduction, including those who have accepted voluntary redundancy and retirement opportunities over the past seven weeks.

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On March 9, Trump, in an interview with Fox News, called American education and the U.S. Department of Education the worst in the world. On March 6, it was reported about Trump's plan to abolish the US Department of Education. At the same time, it is claimed that the draft decree that has already been prepared requires the current Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, who was appointed on March 4, to "take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure" of her department.