The U.S. Department of Education has offered a voluntary separation incentive payment (VSIP) of up to $25,000 to a majority of its employees, with a deadline of Monday evening to accept. This comes amidst expectations of significant workforce reductions under the Trump administration.
An internal email, first reported by Politico, revealed the offer and the impending reduction in force (RIF). The Department confirmed the VSIP offer in a statement to Fox News Digital, characterizing it as a one-time opportunity preceding substantial staffing cuts.
The payout, capped at $25,000, is equivalent to severance pay or the maximum amount, whichever is less. While most employees are eligible, certain exceptions apply, including those on disability retirement and those who have recently received student loan repayment benefits or retention bonuses.
This development coincides with the Senate confirmation of Linda McMahon, President Trump's nominee for Education Secretary. Trump has previously expressed his desire to abolish the Department, criticizing its cost-effectiveness and educational outcomes. He has reportedly encouraged McMahon to "put herself out of a job" if confirmed.
Although eliminating the Department entirely requires Congressional action, the administration has already initiated downsizing efforts, including the cancellation of nearly $1 billion in contracts. This includes approximately $350 million in what the administration deems "woke" spending, targeting programs deemed wasteful or ideologically driven. The Department previously canceled contracts with Regional Educational Laboratories (RELs) after a review identified such spending. It remains unclear if these cuts are connected to the Department of Government Efficiency’s reduction of DEI-related activities within the Education Department.
The offer of buyouts and the anticipated workforce reduction signify a significant shift in the Department of Education under the Trump administration, reflecting the President's long-standing criticism of the agency.
