American billionaire and education reform advocate Betsy Devos has been named by President- elect Donald Trump as his Secretary for Education, who could also serve as the Christian voice in the administration.
Trump said DeVos is "a brilliant and passionate education advocate." He also said that the top priority if DeVos as the education secretary is to "break the bureaucracy that is holding our children back so that we can deliver world-class education and school choice to all families."
DeVos, aside from being known as a philanthropist and a staunch political figure, is also a devoted Christian who has actively campaigned to reform the current state-mandated science like the theory of evolution and instead, adopt Christian principles into curricular programs. DeVos is also advocating for freedom to choose schools and a 'voucher system' so that those wishing to attend private schools are provided with the opportunity to do so.
The announcement of DeVos' appointment, however, met harsh criticism from several sectors, especially those advocating for religious freedom and not limit the education system based on a Christian perspective. This includes the sentiments raised by the National Education Union, represented by some 3 million educators all across America. They are against the proposal for the voucher system that they feel will not succeed and take away funding from public schools.
Some sectors also expressed concerns over her family ties with Eric Prince- ex- Navy Seal and founder of the controversial security contractor Blackwater USA. Blackwater hugged the limelights years back when it was employed by the Central Intelligence Agency as an independent security contractor for covert operations, especially in the Middle East.
DeVos is also believed to have strong Christian ties who was educated throughout most of her scholastic life in Christian institutions and also an active member of the Christian Reformed group in her home state of Michigan. She and her husband, Richard, are also known for their philanthropic and charitable efforts in several Christian communities and movements.
Although much of the advocacies of DeVos, some who have known her, are more focused towards the common good rather than idealist Christian principles, they are hoping that her rooted background in Christianity may become useful in the Trump administration. They also believe that this could be a good leverage on giving the American Christian the voice it needs in the White House.
DeVos was also a major contributor to the Republican Party campaign during the last elections, but did not support the candidacy of Trump. She reportedly joined the camp after Trump met with key Republican figures, including DeVos, just recently.
