WASHINGTON – On Friday, the Trump administration announced it would finally release billions in education funding that had been on hold for several weeks, though they plan to postpone spending for K-12 schools across the country.
Funds meant for immigration education, English language learning, and various other initiatives were supposed to be distributed prior to July 1. However, a day before that, the administration retained $6.8 billion for further review, a move met with criticism from both parties in Congress.
The release from the Education Department did include $1.3 billion for summer programs in mid-July, but most of the funding has remained stagnant.
A spokesperson from the Department of Education, Maddie Biederman, stated in an email that the White House Budget Office has now “completed a review” of the accounts and directed the department to release all formula funds. Biederman indicated that funds should start reaching school districts next week.
Satisfaction from certain leaders
Senator Susan Collins, a Republican and chair of the Budget Committee, expressed satisfaction with the funding decision, stating, “Funding is essential to the operation of Maine’s public schools and supports everything from classroom guidance to adult education.” She noted that outreach from her and her colleagues had encouraged the administration to resolve the delays and release the funds without further holdups, which she believes will aid schools in planning their finances for the upcoming academic year.
Collins, along with nine other Republican senators, previously sent a letter calling for the government to properly implement the spending law passed in March, emphasizing that withholding funds contradicts President Trump’s objective to return K-12 education control to states. She pointed out that local leaders should decide how to use these funds, as they understand the community’s needs best.
West Virginia Republican Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who leads the Education Appropriations Subcommittee, also shared her relief that the funds wouldn’t remain frozen. She highlighted the importance of these programs, noting they provide valuable opportunities ranging from after-school activities to adult education, enabling individuals to gain necessary skills and certifications.
