Why parents are losing faith in US public schools even as most oppose shutting down the Education Department

Public confidence in U.S. schools is falling as parents turn towards private and alternative education models, fueled by declining enrollment, school choice expansion, and pandemic-era shifts. Yet, most Americans oppose shutting down the Education Department, highlighting a paradox: Families want more options but still value public education. Consolidations, closures, and redesigns loom as districts face mounting pressure.