ED was created in 1980 by combining offices from several federal agencies. ED's mission is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. ED's 4,200 employees and $63.7 billion budget are dedicated to:
Establishing policies on federal financial aid for education, and distributing as well as monitoring those funds.Contact ED staff. See performance plans and accountability reports and ED's strategic plan. Find out about ED's offices and structure. Learn about ED's mission, initiatives, senior staff, and website.
Early learning, ESEA reauthorization, Investing in Innovation, Race to the Top, Recovery Act, and more.
See a list of political appointees at the U.S. Department of Education.
Phone numbers for ED staff and toll-free numbers for questions about NCLB, financial aid, publications, civil rights, fraud and waste, and more.
Read this review of the Obama Administration's education efforts in 2009.
State Information and Contacts
State ed. departments and agencies, state accountability plans, state contacts, and other state information.