A federal judge has blocked former President Trump’s executive order aimed at dismantling the U.S. Department of Education and has ordered the reinstatement of employees who were recently terminated.

The decision comes after school districts and education advocacy groups filed a lawsuit arguing that the abrupt layoffs posed a risk of irreparable harm to students and schools nationwide. The judge granted a preliminary injunction, halting further action under the executive order.

The Trump administration has maintained that the move is part of a broader efficiency effort rather than a full shutdown of the department. However, the judge noted that the scope and impact of the terminations suggest otherwise, prompting the court to reverse the dismissals.

While the administration acknowledged that the restructuring may cause temporary service disruptions, it stated its intent to continue meeting all statutory obligations.