Additional Coverage:
- Department of Education offers massive buyout check to employees – but it only lasts for a few hours (irishstar.com)
Department of Education Offers Buyouts as Cuts Loom
The Department of Education has announced a buyout offer for a majority of its employees as the agency faces significant downsizing. Eligible employees have until 11:59 p.m. Monday to decide whether to accept a $25,000 buyout, which can be combined with retirement benefits and will take effect March 31.
This development follows President Trump’s stated intention to restructure the department. His nominee for Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, faces Senate confirmation hearings Monday.
An internal email, obtained by news outlets, warned that the buyout offer is a “one-time offer” preceding a substantial reduction in force. The email also cautioned that layoffs may be necessary in the future.
The buyout is capped at $25,000 or the equivalent of severance pay, whichever is less. Employees who have been with the department for less than three years, have recently received bonuses, or benefited from student loan repayment programs within the last three years are ineligible for the buyout.