Trump releases a back-to-school letter to American students

President Donald Trump encouraged American schoolchildren to learn every day in a back-to-school letter, which the Department of Education says is the first of its kind from an American president.

“The Golden Age of America relies upon your tremendous leadership, commitment, and character,” Trump wrote Monday. “I encourage you to do your best in school each day, ask questions and never stop learning. Keep dreaming big and working hard, and always remember there is no limit to what you can achieve for yourself and for the United States of America.”

Trump said in the letter that he and his administration are “fighting” every day to improve American education. He also encouraged children to contact the White House to share their achievements.

“Write to the White House and tell us about the projects you are proud of, the lessons you have learned, the success you have in sports, the goals you have set, and the ways you are making a difference in your school and community,” the letter read. “We look forward to hearing from classrooms all across America.”

During his presidency, Trump has examined the American education system and signed an executive order in March 2025 directing the development of a plan to close the Department of Education. Many of its functions would shift to other federal agencies. Trump has said he wants to return education authority and funding to the states.

According to the Department of Education, this is the first time a president has addressed all American schoolchildren in a single letter. President Barack Obama delivered annual back-to-school addresses to students during his presidency. Presidents have also often corresponded with children through personal letters or visited students in classrooms. That includes a tradition at a West Virginia school where students write to the president each year for Presidents Day. The students received a letter from President George W. Bush during his presidency and from Trump in 2025 and 2026.

The Presidential Fitness Test also is returning to classrooms this year as part of Trump and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s efforts to “Make America Healthy Again.” Second Lady Usha Vance also promoted reading through her summer reading challenge.

Trump closed the letter by wishing students a successful school year.

“The Golden Age of America relies upon your tremendous leadership, commitment, and character,” he wrote.