Based on Linda McMahon’s background in business, leadership, and her stated priorities, here are five positive contributions she could potentially make as U.S. Secretary of Education, assuming she leverages her skills effectively and works collaboratively:
–Expand Vocational and Apprenticeship Programs: McMahon’s emphasis on alternatives to traditional degrees, as seen in her advocacy for apprenticeships, could strengthen career and technical education. She could partner with businesses to create robust, industry-aligned training programs, helping students enter high-demand fields like technology, manufacturing, and healthcare without college debt.
–Promote School Choice and Parental Empowerment: Drawing on her support for parental rights and school choice, McMahon could expand access to charter schools, voucher programs, and education savings accounts. This could provide more options for underserved communities, potentially improving outcomes by fostering competition and innovation in education.
–Enhance Workforce Readiness Initiatives: McMahon could leverage her small business experience to develop programs that align education with job market needs, such as partnerships with private sectors for internships and mentorships. This could prepare students for a competitive economy, particularly in rural or economically disadvantaged areas.
–Streamline Department Operations: With her business expertise from WWE and the SBA, McMahon could identify inefficiencies within the Department of Education, reducing bureaucratic red tape. This might include simplifying federal grant processes or optimizing resource allocation to better support schools and students.
–Reduce Overreliance on Standardized Testing: If McMahon prioritizes practical outcomes over traditional metrics, she could push for reforms that reduce the emphasis on standardized testing, focusing instead on holistic assessments of student progress, creativity, and real-world skills, potentially easing pressure on schools and students.
These actions would align with her business-oriented approach and stated goals, though their success would depend on navigating political challenges, securing funding, and balancing diverse stakeholder needs.
