An internal 95‑page review delivered to Education Secretary Linda McMahon recommends sweeping changes to the Institute of Education Sciences, including a "thorough review" of National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data collections and possible discontinuation of some surveys. The report argues that several collections that agencies treat as "statutorily required" reflect NCES operational choices and calls for six big shifts that would reshape how federal education data are gathered and used. The review follows major layoffs that gutted NCES capacity last year and comes as states, researchers and institutions warn of shrinking reliable federal data. NCES historically administered the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) and a range of surveys that guided K–12 and higher‑education policy; stakeholders say cuts could reduce the evidence base for decisions on enrollment, instruction modes and recovery programs. Education leaders and research organizations are monitoring the review and preparing to press for protections of key collections. If the department discontinues or narrows surveys, universities and state agencies may need to develop alternative data sources or increase reliance on private providers.