Parents and students need to focus on ‘Return on Investment’

Students and Parents Urged to Consider Educational Investment

Secretary of Education Linda McMahon recently spoke with Breitbart News Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlowe about the importance of evaluating the “return on investment” for education, especially during a time when rising costs and inadequate education are pressing concerns for students and parents.

In a detailed interview, McMahon emphasized the need for states, students, and parents to customize education according to individual student needs while making it more affordable. She noted that the Department of Education, initially created by Congress under President Jimmy Carter, is slated for dissolution under President Trump’s directive, pending formal approval from Congress.

Marlowe questioned McMahon on how the Department plans to tackle the overwhelming student loan debt that many young adults face as they seek financial independence and career fulfillment.

McMahon replied, “It’s essential to reassess the entire educational landscape and understand what these student loans are really for. The president aimed to address this issue through the ‘Big and Beautiful Bill.'” He mentioned that since universities can easily determine tuition costs for programs, what motivation do they have to keep expenses down? “This creates a reverse incentive that just drives costs higher. We had to impose some limits on it,” McMahon stated.

Beyond addressing loan cap issues, McMahon proposed a shift in how Americans view education, urging them to explore less traditional, and often more affordable, educational paths suited to specific career fields.

“Not everyone needs a four-year degree,” she emphasized. “We really have to change that perspective. There’s a significant demand for skilled workers right now—about 700,000 job openings. Students can enroll in community colleges or technical programs and enter the workforce quickly, earning for themselves.”

She added that students might choose to continue their education later or start their businesses based on what they learn. “There are individuals thriving in trades, creating their own opportunities,” she noted.

McMahon clarified, however, that she fully supports those pursuing collegiate education, especially for careers that necessitate it, like medicine or law. Yet, she highlighted that a successful, fulfilling life doesn’t always require a four-year degree.

When discussing options for college, she urged students and parents to critically assess the potential effectiveness of a specific education and its resulting financial implications.

“It’s vital for students to understand the return on investment of attending college,” she said. “Parents must evaluate how much a university costs and compare it with potential career outcomes.” McMahon stressed looking into similar programs that might vary in cost but offer valuable education.

She encouraged parents to be proactive in their children’s educational experiences. “Get involved. Attend school board meetings. Stay connected with teachers and help shape the curriculum,” she advised.