The executive branch of the government is responsible for the U.S. Department of

The executive branch of the government is responsible for the U.S. Department of Education. What purpose does the U.S. Department of Education serve? How does this department work with States’ Departments of Education and local school districts? In your opinion, does having a U.S. Department of Education benefit K-12 education in the United States? Why or why not?
After answering the discussion question with at lease 120 words you will then respond to the following 2 classmates with positive feedback on there thoughts about the same question using at least 120 words for each respons.
1.The US department of education serves as a backbone for the United States educational structure. Like the Federal Law vs. State Law, the US education department creates a framework that encompasses the general view point and direction for states to model their education programs after. The US Department of Education representatives work with state departments that then relay information and work with local districts. Once bills have been passed through congress the changes are then made in the US framework and passed down to the state and district framework. Ultimately the state governments job is to manage problems and determine what is to happen in the local governments.
The US Department of Education serves as a valuable purpose for maintaining and keeping a national standard for education. However, this can turn problematic as not every state serves the same type of people. A lot of states are rural and suburban with few urban cities, while other cities are family urban with little rural country. Education in both of these types of states looks different based on demographic, weather and type of living. Although having a standard of expectations in education is important the US Department of Education could refine their polices to allow for more freedom among states to choose. The US Department is necessary for the national education system to maintain its structure, however, refining their policy and giving states more freedom on their policies would positively impact education as a whole. Power of State vs. Federal Government. (2009, March 5). YouTube. http://fod.infobase.com.lopes.idm.oclc.org/p_ViewVideo.aspx?xtid=6187&loid=59916
2. The U.S. Department of Education (DOE) serves several purposes related to K-12 education in the United States:
It formulates federal policies and regulations concerning education, including issues such as curriculum standards, funding allocations, and educational equity initiatives.
It administers and distributes federal funding to states and local school districts, often through grants and assistance programs to support various aspects of education, from improving academic achievement to promoting teacher development.
The DOE collects and disseminates educational data and research to inform policymakers, educators, and the public about academic trends and best practices.
Through a collaborative framework, the department works closely with the States’ Departments of Education and local school districts. While the federal government sets overarching policies and provides funding, implementing these policies and programs predominantly occurs at the state and local levels. States’ Departments of Education are responsible for ensuring that federal education mandates are met within their jurisdictions and developing and implementing state-specific education policies. Local school districts, in turn, have autonomy over curriculum decisions, hiring practices, and day-to-day operations. Still, they must comply with federal and state regulations to receive funding and support.
Having a U.S. Department of Education can benefit K-12 education in the United States, although its impact may vary depending on various factors. One significant benefit is the role of the DOE in promoting educational equity and providing resources to disadvantaged students and schools. Federal funding programs such as Title I aim to address educational opportunities and outcomes disparities, which can help level the playing field for students from marginalized communities. Additionally, the DOE fosters innovation and shares best practices across states and districts through research, technical assistance, and collaboration initiatives.
However, some critics argue that the DOE’s involvement in education leads to excessive bureaucracy, unfunded mandates, and a one-size-fits-all approach that may only sometimes align with local communities’ diverse needs and priorities. Moreover, debates over the appropriate balance of federal versus state and local control in education continue to be contentious issues in education policy. Overall, while the U.S. Department of Education serves important functions in supporting and improving K-12 education, its effectiveness ultimately depends on how well it navigates the complexities of federalism, collaborates with states and localities, and addresses the evolving challenges facing the education system.
References: U.S. Department of Education. (n.d.). About ED. Retrieved from https://www.ed.gov/about
Darling-Hammond, L., & Adamson, F. (2014). Beyond the Bubble Test: How Performance Assessments Support 21st Century Learning. Jossey-Bass.
Orfield, G., & Lee, C. (2005). Historic Reversals, Accelerating Resegregation, and the Need for New Integration Strategies. UCLA Civil Rights Project.
Carnoy, M., & Loeb, S. (2002). Does External Accountability Affect Student Outcomes? A Cross-State Analysis. Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis, 24(4), 305–331.