What is the primary function of the United States Secretary of Education?

The United States Secretary of Education serves as the principal advisor to the President of the United States and the federal government on all matters concerning policies, programs, and activities related to education within the United States. They head the United States Department of Education.

What is the official title of the head of the United States Department of Education?

The official title is the United States Secretary of Education.

Who is the current incumbent United States Secretary of Education, and when did they assume office?

As of the provided information, the incumbent United States Secretary of Education is Linda McMahon, who took office on March 3, 2025.

What is the formal style of address for the United States Secretary of Education?

The formal style of address for the United States Secretary of Education is 'The Honorable'. Informally, they may be addressed as 'Madam Secretary' or 'Mr. Secretary'.

To whom does the United States Secretary of Education report?

The United States Secretary of Education reports directly to the President of the United States.

In which building is the seat of the United States Secretary of Education located?

The seat of the United States Secretary of Education is located in the Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Building in Washington, D.C.

How is the United States Secretary of Education appointed, and what is required for confirmation?

The United States Secretary of Education is appointed by the President of the United States, with the requirement of advice and consent from the United States Senate.

Does the term of office for the United States Secretary of Education have a fixed duration?

No, the term of office for the United States Secretary of Education does not have a fixed duration.

What legal document serves as the constituting instrument for the role of the United States Secretary of Education?

The constituting instrument for the role of the United States Secretary of Education is Title 20 of the United States Code, specifically section 3411 (20 U.S.C. § 3411).

When was the United States Department of Education established, and who was its first Secretary?

The United States Department of Education was formed on November 30, 1979, and its first Secretary was Shirley Hufstedler.

What is the United States Secretary of Education's position in the United States presidential line of succession?

The United States Secretary of Education holds the sixteenth position in the United States presidential line of succession.

What is the salary level designated for the United States Secretary of Education?

The salary for the United States Secretary of Education is set at Executive Schedule, Level I.

What is the official website for the United States Department of Education?

The official website for the United States Department of Education is ed.gov.

What was the role of the United States Commissioner of Education prior to the establishment of the Department of Education?

Prior to the creation of the Department of Education as an Executive Department in 1979, the United States Commissioner of Education led the United States Office of Education, but this was a non-Cabinet level position.

What is the significance of the Secretary of Education being a member of the Cabinet of the United States?

As a member of the Cabinet of the United States, the Secretary of Education is placed sixteenth in the line of succession to the presidency, indicating a high level of importance in the executive branch.

What advisory body assists the Secretary of Education regarding accreditation and institutional eligibility?

The Secretary of Education is advised by the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI) on matters concerning accreditation and the eligibility and certification processes for institutions of higher education.

Who served as the first Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Dwight D. Eisenhower?

Oveta Culp Hobby served as the first Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Dwight D. Eisenhower, from April 11, 1953, to July 31, 1955.

Which Secretaries served under President John F. Kennedy in the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare?

Abraham A. Ribicoff and Anthony J. Celebrezze served as Secretaries of Health, Education, and Welfare under President John F. Kennedy.

Who was the last Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare before the Department of Education was established?

Patricia Roberts Harris was the last Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare, serving until August 3, 1979, when the department's name changed and education functions were transferred.

What does the gray background color in the historical tables signify regarding a secretary's tenure?

A gray background color in the historical tables denotes an acting secretary, indicating they held the position temporarily.

Who was the first Secretary of the United States Department of Education after its establishment?

Shirley Hufstedler was the first Secretary of the United States Department of Education, serving from November 30, 1979, to January 20, 1981.

Which President appointed Richard Riley as Secretary of Education, and during which years did he serve?

Richard Riley was appointed Secretary of Education by President Bill Clinton and served from January 21, 1993, to January 20, 2001.

Who served as Secretary of Education under President Barack Obama?

Arne Duncan served as Secretary of Education from January 21, 2009, to January 1, 2016, followed by John King Jr. from March 14, 2016, to January 20, 2017.

Who was the Secretary of Education during President Donald Trump's administration?

Betsy DeVos served as Secretary of Education from February 7, 2017, to January 8, 2021.

Who is the current Secretary of Education serving under President Joe Biden?

Miguel Cardona is the current Secretary of Education, serving from March 2, 2021, to January 20, 2025.

What are the political party affiliations indicated for the Secretaries of Education listed in the table?

The tables indicate that Secretaries affiliated with the Democratic Party are shown with a blue background, while those affiliated with the Republican Party are shown with a red background. Acting secretaries are indicated by a gray background.

Which Secretary of Education served the longest continuous term among those listed?

Richard Riley served the longest continuous term as Secretary of Education, from January 21, 1993, to January 20, 2001, spanning President Bill Clinton's entire tenure.

What related topics are suggested for further reading in the 'See also' section of the article?

The 'See also' section suggests further reading on 'Education in the United States' and 'Special education in the United States'.

According to the succession box, what is the ceremonial order of precedence for the Secretary of Education relative to other Cabinet secretaries?

In the ceremonial order of precedence, the Secretary of Education follows the Secretary of Energy and precedes the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

What are some key offices or entities within the United States Department of Education mentioned in the provided text?

Key offices and entities within the Department of Education include the Office for Civil Rights, the Institute of Education Sciences (which houses the National Center for Education Statistics), Federal Student Aid, the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, and the National Library of Education.

What were some of the previous departments that housed education-related functions before the establishment of the current Department of Education?

Before the current Department of Education, education-related functions were part of departments such as the Department of Commerce and Labor, the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, and earlier, the Department of War and the Post Office Department.

Who are some of the current leaders of other federal executive departments listed in the provided navbox, besides the Secretary of Education?

The navbox lists current leaders for other departments, including Vice President JD Vance, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Attorney General Pam Bondi, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, and Secretary of Veterans Affairs Doug Collins.

What is the purpose of the United States Department of Education?

The United States Department of Education works to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. It also collects data on America's schools to guide improvements in education and works to ensure equal access to education and to promote the fair distribution of educational opportunities.

Who was the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Richard Nixon?

Several individuals served as Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare under President Richard Nixon: Robert Finch (June 23, 1970 - June 23, 1970), Elliot L. Richardson (June 24, 1970 - January 29, 1973), Caspar Weinberger (February 12, 1973 - August 8, 1975), and F. David Mathews (August 8, 1975 - January 20, 1977).

What is the significance of the 'Order of presidential succession' reference in relation to the Secretary of Education?

The Secretary of Education is sixteenth in the United States presidential line of succession, meaning they are among the officials designated to assume the presidency if the President and Vice President are unable to serve.

What is the role of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) within the Department of Education?

The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) is part of the Institute of Education Sciences and is the primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education in the U.S. and other nations. Its data guides improvements in education and ensures fair distribution of educational opportunities.

Who was the Secretary of Education under President George W. Bush?

Rod Paige served as Secretary of Education from January 20, 2001, to January 20, 2005, followed by Margaret Spellings from January 20, 2005, to January 20, 2009.

What does the 'Succession' field in the infobox, indicating 'Sixteenth', refer to?

The 'Sixteenth' in the succession field refers to the Secretary of Education's rank in the United States presidential line of succession, as established by federal law.

What is the purpose of the 'Federal Student Aid' office within the Department of Education?

The Federal Student Aid office is responsible for ensuring that eligible students are able to finance their education through federal student loans, grants, and work-study programs.

Who served as acting Secretary of Education under President Donald Trump?

Mick Zais served as Acting Secretary of Education from January 8, 2021, to January 20, 2021. Phil Rosenfelt also served as Acting Secretary from January 20, 2021, to March 2, 2021, during the transition period.

What is the function of the 'Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services' within the Department of Education?

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services oversees programs and policies related to special education for children and youth with disabilities, as well as vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities.

Who was the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare when the department's name changed to Secretary of Health and Human Services?

Patricia Roberts Harris was the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare on May 4, 1980, when the office's name changed to Secretary of Health and Human Services. Her term continued uninterrupted as the department's name was the only change requiring no new confirmation.

What is the role of the 'Institute of Education Sciences' within the Department of Education?

The Institute of Education Sciences (IES) is the research arm of the Department of Education, responsible for providing rigorous and independent research, development, evaluation, and dissemination of information to improve educational practice and outcomes.

United States Secretary Of Education Wiki: The Secretary's Seat: Navigating U.S. Education Leadership

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Overview

Role and Responsibility

The United States Secretary of Education is the principal advisor to the President of the United States on all matters pertaining to federal influence over education policy. As the head of the United States Department of Education, the Secretary oversees the implementation and administration of federal education programs and initiatives across the nation.

Department Leadership

The Department of Education was established as an independent executive department on November 30, 1979. The Secretary's role is pivotal in shaping national educational strategies, ensuring equitable access to education, and promoting educational excellence from early childhood through higher education and beyond.

Historical Context

Prior to the creation of the Department of Education, educational oversight was managed by various offices, including the United States Office of Education within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. The establishment of a dedicated Cabinet-level position underscored the growing importance of federal involvement in education.

Core Functions

Policy and Advisory

The Secretary serves as a key member of the President's Cabinet, providing expert counsel on educational matters. This includes advising on legislative proposals, budget priorities, and the strategic direction of federal education initiatives designed to support students, educators, and institutions nationwide.

Oversight and Administration

The Secretary is responsible for the effective administration of the Department of Education's programs, including financial aid for higher education, grants for K-12 schools, and initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. This involves ensuring compliance with federal laws and regulations.

Collaboration and Engagement

The Secretary engages with state and local education agencies, educators, parents, students, and various stakeholders to foster collaboration and address the diverse needs of the American education system. They also advise on matters related to accreditation and institutional quality through committees like the National Advisory Committee on Institutional Quality and Integrity (NACIQI).

Establishment & First Holder

Department Formation

The United States Department of Education was officially established on November 30, 1979, marking a significant step in federalizing educational policy and support. This created a Cabinet-level position dedicated solely to education.

Inaugural Secretary

The first United States Secretary of Education was Shirley Hufstedler. Appointed by President Jimmy Carter, she took office on November 30, 1979, and served until January 20, 1981, laying the groundwork for the newly formed department.

List of Secretaries

Historical Tenure

The role of Secretary of Education has been held by numerous individuals, each contributing to the evolution of national education policy. Below is a comprehensive list of those who have served, detailing their terms and the presidents under whom they served.

The following tables detail the Secretaries of Health, Education, and Welfare (prior to the Department's establishment) and the Secretaries of Education.

Secretaries of Health, Education, and Welfare (Selected Roles)

No.	Name	State of residence	Took office	Left office	President(s)
1	Oveta Culp Hobby	Texas	April 11, 1953	July 31, 1955	Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)
2	Marion B. Folsom	New York	August 2, 1955	July 31, 1958
3	Arthur Flemming	Ohio	August 1, 1958	January 19, 1961
4	Abraham A. Ribicoff	Connecticut	January 21, 1961	July 13, 1962	John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)
5	Anthony J. Celebrezze	Ohio	July 31, 1962	August 17, 1965	John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)
5	Anthony J. Celebrezze	Ohio	July 31, 1962	August 17, 1965	Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969)
6	John W. Gardner	California	August 18, 1965	March 1, 1968
7	Wilbur J. Cohen	Michigan	May 16, 1968	January 20, 1969
8	Robert Finch	California	January 21, 1969	June 23, 1970	Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
9	Elliot L. Richardson	Massachusetts	June 24, 1970	January 29, 1973
10	Caspar Weinberger	California	February 12, 1973	August 8, 1975
10	Caspar Weinberger	California	February 12, 1973	August 8, 1975	Gerald Ford (1974–1977)
11	F. David Mathews	Alabama	August 8, 1975	January 20, 1977	Gerald Ford (1974–1977)

Secretaries of Education

No.	Name	State of residence	Took office	Left office	President
1	Shirley Hufstedler	California	November 30, 1979	January 20, 1981	Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
2	Terrel Bell	Utah	January 22, 1981	January 20, 1985	Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
	William Bennett	North Carolina	February 6, 1985	September 20, 1988
3	William Bennett	North Carolina	February 6, 1985	September 20, 1988
4	Lauro Cavazos	Texas	September 20, 1988	December 12, 1990
4	Lauro Cavazos	Texas	September 20, 1988	December 12, 1990	George H. W. Bush (1989–1993)
	Ted Sanders Acting	Illinois	December 12, 1990	March 22, 1991
5	Lamar Alexander	Tennessee	March 22, 1991	January 20, 1993
6	Richard Riley	South Carolina	January 21, 1993	January 20, 2001	Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
7	Rod Paige	Texas	January 20, 2001	January 20, 2005	George W. Bush (2001–2009)
8	Margaret Spellings	Texas	January 20, 2005	January 20, 2009	George W. Bush (2001–2009)
9	Arne Duncan	Illinois	January 21, 2009	January 1, 2016	Barack Obama (2009–2017)
10	John King Jr.	New York	January 1, 2016	March 14, 2016
10	John King Jr.	New York	March 14, 2016	January 20, 2017
	Phil Rosenfelt Acting	Virginia	January 20, 2017	February 7, 2017	Donald Trump (2017–2021)
11	Betsy DeVos	Michigan	February 7, 2017	January 8, 2021
	Mick Zais Acting	South Carolina	January 8, 2021	January 20, 2021
	Phil Rosenfelt Acting	Virginia	January 20, 2021	March 2, 2021	Joe Biden (2021–2025)
12	Miguel Cardona	Connecticut	March 2, 2021	January 20, 2025	Joe Biden (2021–2025)
	Denise L. Carter Acting		January 20, 2025	March 3, 2025	Donald Trump (2025–present)
13	Linda McMahon	Connecticut	March 3, 2025	present	Donald Trump (2025–present)

Cabinet and Succession

Cabinet Membership

The Secretary of Education is a member of the Cabinet of the United States, serving as a principal advisor to the President on matters of national education policy and strategy. This position signifies the federal government's commitment to education as a critical component of national progress and development.

Presidential Line of Succession

In the event of the President's and Vice President's inability to discharge their duties, the Secretary of Education is sixteenth in the United States presidential line of succession. This highlights the significant national security and continuity responsibilities associated with the office.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the United States Secretary of Education Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. Information regarding current officeholders or recent appointments is based on the latest available data and may be subject to change.

This is not official government advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for official government documentation, legal counsel, or consultation with relevant authorities. Always refer to official government sources for the most current and accurate information.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Secretary's Seat

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Overview ℹ️

🇺🇸 Role and Responsibility

🏛️ Department Leadership

📜 Historical Context

Core Functions ⚙️

⚖️ Policy and Advisory

📊 Oversight and Administration

🤝 Collaboration and Engagement

Establishment & First Holder 🗓️

🚀 Department Formation

👩‍⚖️ Inaugural Secretary

List of Secretaries 👥

📜 Historical Tenure

Secretaries of Health, Education, and Welfare (Selected Roles)

Secretaries of Education

Cabinet and Succession ⚖️

🇺🇸 Cabinet Membership

➡️ Presidential Line of Succession

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Role and Responsibility

Department Leadership

Historical Context

Core Functions

Policy and Advisory

Oversight and Administration

Collaboration and Engagement

Establishment & First Holder

Department Formation

Inaugural Secretary

List of Secretaries

Historical Tenure

Cabinet and Succession

Cabinet Membership

Presidential Line of Succession

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice