Linda McMahon, President-elect Donald J. Trump’s choice for education secretary, has a different educational background compared to previous candidates for the position. Although she became certified as a French teacher in college, she got married early and did not pursue a teaching career. Despite this, she has been involved in education through her 16-year tenure on the board of trustees for Sacred Heart University in Connecticut and her brief time on the Connecticut State Board of Education.
One of McMahon’s key policy priorities is school choice, a concept supported by Trump, which allows families to use money that would typically go to public schools for private education instead. This was a significant focus under the previous education secretary, Betsy DeVos, and has been adopted by more states through taxpayer-funded voucher programs.
Trump emphasized McMahon’s dedication to expanding school choice across all states and empowering parents to make educational decisions for their families. He also highlighted her business experience as the former CEO of World Wrestling Entertainment, suggesting that it would help her lead the effort to decentralize education and potentially reduce or eliminate the federal Department of Education.
McMahon’s approach to the Department of Education may differ from past secretaries due to her background in business and advocacy for school choice. Despite her limited experience in traditional education settings, she brings a unique perspective that aligns with Trump’s vision for transforming the national education system. As she takes on this new role, it will be interesting to see how she navigates the challenges and opportunities within the Department of Education and works towards achieving her policy goals.