Donald Trump (Picture credit: AP)
Donald Trump has unveiled an aggressive plan to reshape American education, aiming to counter what he describes as skyrocketing tuition costs and left-wing indoctrination in colleges. Central to his vision is a reform of the accreditation system, which he argues has enabled “Marxist” influence to dominate campuses. By firing current accreditors and enforcing new standards that emphasise American values, free speech, and career readiness, Trump proposes to hold institutions accountable, reduce administrative costs, and introduce accelerated, affordable degree options. His plan also includes penalties for schools engaged in discriminatory practices, including potential taxes on endowments to fund restitution for those affected.
- Overhaul of Accreditation System: Trump intends to dismiss “radical left” accreditors, accusing them of enabling the indoctrination of America’s youth and failing to hold institutions accountable, with a pledge to replace them with accreditors focused on traditional American values.
- Promotion of American Tradition and Western Civilization: New accreditation standards will include a focus on defending “the American tradition and Western civilization,” aiming to ensure students are educated in patriotic principles rather than what he describes as “Marxist” ideologies.
- Protection of Free Speech: Trump proposes that institutions reinforce free speech rights, positioning them as a core standard for accreditation and challenging what he perceives as censorship within academic institutions.
- Elimination of “Wasteful” Administrative Positions: He targets diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) bureaucratic roles, labelling them as “Marxist” and attributing their presence to rising education costs, pledging to eliminate these positions to reduce expenses.
- Accelerated, Low-Cost Degree Options: Trump advocates for educational pathways that provide accelerated and affordable degrees, aiming to make college more financially accessible for students.
- Entrance and Exit Exams for Accountability: To ensure educational value, he proposes mandatory college entrance and exit exams, with the goal of proving that students are genuinely learning and receiving a quality education.
- Justice Department Action on “Racial Discrimination”: He plans to direct the Department of Justice to take action against colleges engaging in what he describes as racial discrimination, particularly when justified under “equity” initiatives.
- Taxation and Fines on Non-Compliant Endowments: For colleges continuing “unlawful discrimination,” Trump proposes taxing and potentially fining endowments, threatening hefty financial penalties as a deterrent.
- Restitution for Victims of Discriminatory Policies: Part of the seized endowment funds would be allocated as restitution for individuals affected by what he calls “illegal and unjust policies,” aimed at restoring fairness and penalizing perceived anti-American practices.
- Emphasis on Career Services and Job Placement: Trump intends for colleges to improve job placement and career services, emphasizing the need for taxpayer-funded institutions to prepare students for meaningful employment and ensure value for educational investment.
