The signing ceremony featured an unusual arrangement of children seated at desks around the President, each with mock versions of the order to sign alongside Trump.
"I will sign an executive order to begin eliminating the Federal Department of Education once and for all," Trump declared during the ceremony. "And it sounds strange, doesn't it? Department of Education, we're going to eliminate it, and everybody knows it's right, and the Democrats know it's right."
The executive order has prompted immediate concern from higher education advocates and diversity leaders across the nation. The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE) issued a strong statement opposing the action.
"This step would further harm institutions of higher education and negatively impact diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, threatening access to education for historically underserved students and communities," said Paulette Granberry Russell, President and CEO of NADOHE.
Similarly, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) expressed strong opposition to the move.
"We are dismayed by the administration's executive order calling for the dismantling of the Department of Education," said Dr. Charles L. Welch, AASCU President. "The Department of Education promotes student achievement, prepares students for global competitiveness, and ensures equal access to education."
