Carter’s legacy: Education Department established

Jimmy Carter, the 39th U.S. president, passed away at age 100 on December 29, 2024. He is remembered for establishing the U.S. Department of Education, a promise he made during his 1976 campaign. “The best move for the quality of life in America in the future might very well be this establishment of this new Department of Education,” he stated during the signing of the bill on October 17, 1979. This achievement marked a significant shift in the federal government’s role in education. Carter’s commitment to education began early in his career, serving on the local school board and as Georgia’s governor, where he advocated for educational reforms. His administration faced challenges, including opposition from key figures like Joseph A. Califano Jr., but ultimately succeeded in creating the department, which has influenced education policy for decades. Carter’s legacy extends beyond his presidency, as he continued to support education initiatives throughout his life.