TRUMP ADMINISTRATION DIRECTS PENTAGON TO CUT EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR TROOPS
The Trump administration has continued to cut costs, eliminating two very popular educational programs for troops in the process. In recent months, the Trump administration has come on record explaining how the administration is aiming to reduce spending. As a result, there has been much change impacting the military and those who serve. Now, executives from companies that aim to help troops with tuition costs and provide preparation services have revealed that they have had their contracts cut by DOGE and the last funding bill. Learn more about this significant change in the world of education.
DOGE & Congressional Funding Bills Cut Tuition Assistance Programs for Troops
The Trump administration, as of late, has been focused on achieving greater efficiency within the Pentagon's budget. This goal has led to the review of contracts related to educational programs for troops. The aim of this re-evaluation was to ensure that the funds allocated for these programs were used in a way that maximized their benefit to the military community and to national security.
In light of recent program cuts, companies that provided services such as tuition assistance counseling and test preparation were affected.
One of the companies impacted by the cuts was Vantage Point Consulting, which is a small Veteran-owned business that ran the Career Path DECIDE system. The program was aimed at helping troops learn how to strategically use their tuition assistance benefits.
Another company that has been significantly impacted is the popular test prep company, Peterson’s. Peterson’s is a test preparation company known for helping prepare students through their college prep, grad school prep, career prep, and military prep services. According to the top executive for Peterson’s, its military prep program for troops has been stripped of funding, and is currently facing shut down.
Why Is the Pentagon Looking to Cut These Programs?
The Pentagon is looking to make several changes related to educational programs. The reasoning behind these changes is as follows:
- Prioritize spending: The Trump administration is aiming to direct educational resources towards programs that directly contribute to military readiness.
- Eliminate inefficiencies: The administration is focused on eliminating programs that are redundant or provide a low return on investment.
- Align with national security needs: Lastly, the administration is reassessing the relevance of certain educational initiatives, ensuring that they meet the demands of modern warfare.
What Was the Career Path DECIDE tool?
Career Path DECIDE was a decision support tool provided by the Defense Department. The tool helped service members and veterans identify, prepare for and increase their employment qualifications. The tool aimed to provide assistance during the transition period from military service to the civilian workforce.
The tool helped identify best-fit careers based on military occupation, education and experience. The goal of the Career Path DECIDE was to help service members become more qualified, prepared, and marketable for those careers.
Popular Test Prep Service, Peterson’s, Faces Shutdown
Providing free test preparation services for enlisted troops, their families, and Defense Department civilians for more than 15 years, Peterson’s is being shut down.
The company is well known for providing preparation services to help individuals score higher on the Armed Forces Classification Test (a standardized exam taken by service members who are looking to move into technical jobs).
The test prep program was well liked by troops, and since the announcement of it's shut down, many have been taking to social media to express their disappointment about the ending of the program.
The Peterson’s test prep program was ended by lawmakers late last year, due to federal budget funding cuts.
In statement released by a defense official it was said, “an overall organizational risk assessment was conducted…the Peterson’s Online Academic Skills Course contract will terminate on June 29th, 2025, to meet the requirements of the Defense-Wide Topline Reduction."
How Will These Changes Impact Service Members?
These educational changes have created much concern among service members, as accessible educational programs play a vital role in several key areas of military readiness and the personal development of troops. This includes the following:
- Enhancing career development: Educational opportunities empower troops to acquire skills and knowledge that benefit their military careers and post-service transitions.
- Promoting personal growth: Access to education fosters personal development and growth opportunities.
- Supporting military readiness: Well-educated troops are better equipped to handle the complexities of modern military operations.
The long-term effects of these adjustments to military educational programs remain to be seen. The Pentagon is expected to continue its evaluation and restructuring efforts over the next few months. The outcome of these efforts remains to be seen, but they will undoubtedly shape the future of military education and the opportunities available to those who serve.
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