Linda McMahon Set to Lead Education Amid Math Proficiency Crisis

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Linda McMahon, former WWE executive and Small Business Administration head, is poised to become the next U.S. Secretary of Education under the Trump administration. Her appointment comes as the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) 2024 report reveals a troubling decline in math proficiency among American eighth-graders, with only 33% scoring proficient—a sharp drop from 41% in 2017.

McMahon, who has no formal background in education, plans to bring a business-oriented approach to the role. Her strategy includes a focus on STEM education, performance-based evaluations, and targeted math interventions. However, critics question whether her corporate experience equips her to address the systemic challenges facing American schools.

The NAEP report highlights a widening achievement gap, with students from low-income families and minority groups disproportionately affected. Internationally, U.S. students have slipped from 30th to 34th in math literacy on the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) rankings since 2018.

McMahon’s proposed reforms include restructuring school funding models, emphasizing STEM programs, and implementing performance-based metrics for educators. She also plans to introduce targeted math tutoring programs and partnerships with colleges to address remedial education needs. “We need to think outside the box and bring innovative solutions to our classrooms,” McMahon said in a recent statement.

Despite her lack of traditional qualifications, McMahon’s supporters argue that her business acumen could bring much-needed efficiency to the Department of Education. “Linda understands how to manage large organizations and allocate resources effectively,” said a spokesperson for the America First Policy Institute, where McMahon has served as chair.

However, skeptics warn that her approach risks commodifying education and exacerbating inequities. “We’ve seen what happens when corporate strategies are applied to public education—it often leaves the most vulnerable students behind,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.

As McMahon prepares to take the helm, the stakes are high. With math proficiency declining and international rankings slipping, her tenure will be closely watched. Whether her business-minded reforms can deliver meaningful change remains to be seen.