The US education department says it will cut its workforce nearly in half, as part of efforts to reduce federal government spending.



The Department of Education announced on Tuesday that the number of staff will be cut to 2,183, down from 4,133 when President Donald Trump took office in January.



The department said the reduction includes nearly 600 employees who accepted voluntary resignation opportunities and retirement.



The department also said the remaining staff to be laid off will be placed on administrative leave from March 21. It said those affected by this action will receive three months' salary and benefits, as well as retirement allowances based on length of service.



Secretary of Education Linda McMahon indicated that the move is part of actions to pursue efficiency in the federal government.



She said the reduction reflects the department's commitment to ensure that "resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers."



The department called the reduction part of its "final mission."



Trump has reiterated that he wants to abolish the education department and transfer authority to the states to oversee the country's education system.



US media outlets report that federal agencies cannot be abolished without approval by Congress.



Observers say Trump may accelerate efforts to eliminate the education department.