Capitol News

Josh Cowen, a professor of education policy at Michigan State University’s College of Education, has shared insights on the potential impacts of President-elect Donald Trump's administration on education in the United States. With education becoming an increasingly significant issue for both political parties, discussions focus on parental roles, funding, and school vouchers as a new administration prepares to take office.

Cowen, who has extensive experience in policy issues related to school choice and education reform across the country, is also the author of "The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers." He provides perspectives on possible changes in education and the implications of vouchers for the nation.

Cowen explained why U.S. education policy has become a prominent topic: “Education is about the future. To the extent that both sides of the American political spectrum are focusing on education more now than they have in the past, it’s because we’re having a debate about what the best way to make public policy on behalf of children — tomorrow’s leaders — really is today.”

Addressing how Trump's presidency could affect education policy, Cowen noted that “both the Trump campaign platform and its adjacent Project 2025 demanded the elimination of the U.S. Department of Education.” He elaborated that these plans also include universal school vouchers and attacks on racial justice. According to Cowen, ending federal oversight could signal a shift towards less regulation regarding discrimination in schools.

Discussing universal school vouchers, Cowen described them as forms of public spending that fund private K-12 tuition. He observed that voters have historically rejected voucher initiatives at state levels, including recent defeats in Colorado, Kentucky, and Nebraska. Cowen warned that such vouchers might increase state budget costs without benefiting low-income families significantly.

In terms of improving K-12 education, Cowen emphasized investment: “You get what you pay for. Whether Democrats or Republicans are in charge...they direct spending toward the things they value.” He stressed that investments in public schools have proven generational benefits beyond academics.