The Department of Education is a government agency responsible for overseeing education in a country. Its main goals include ensuring access to quality education, promoting educational equity, and supporting schools and educators. The department develops policies, provides funding, and collects data to improve educational outcomes for students. In the United States, the Department of Education was established in 1980 and focuses on various educational levels, from early childhood to higher education. It administers federal education programs, enforces civil rights laws in education, and works to enhance educational opportunities for all students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds.