SCHOOLS

USA Facts - The Department of Education is the smallest cabinet-level agency and also one of the newest (founded in May 1980). Education is primarily a local and state responsibility, with local governments funding elementary and secondary schools and state governments funding much of higher education. Still, the department’s budget makes up 21% of education spending nationwide.  

• The Education Department received $268.35 billion in 2024; 4% of the federal budget, the sixth-most among federal agencies. 
• The Department of Education is the smallest cabinet-level agency and also one of the newest (founded in May 1980). Education is primarily a local and state responsibility, with local governments funding elementary and secondary schools and state governments funding much of higher education. Still, the department’s budget makes up 21% of education spending nationwide.