AFT criticizes Trump administration's freeze on K-12 funding

The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) President Randi Weingarten has responded to the Education Department's decision to freeze funding for K-12 programs for the 2025-26 school year. Weingarten criticized the Trump administration's actions, describing them as an attack on public education.

Weingarten stated, "Since day one, the Trump administration has attacked public education, undermining both K-12 and higher education, and with it opportunity in America." She further accused the administration of ignoring public opinion and legal rulings that have previously stopped similar attempts to condition federal aid on political criteria.

According to Weingarten, this funding freeze affects billions in federal funds intended for student services and instruction. She claimed that these funds are being withheld while the Education Department evaluates whether they align with Trump's priorities. "This is another illegal usurpation of the authority of Congress," she said, emphasizing that such actions harm children nationwide.

Weingarten highlighted the impact on K-12 public school leaders who face financial uncertainty as they plan for summer and the upcoming school year. Essential programs like summer and after-school activities, migrant education, and English language acquisition are at risk. The ability of school districts to recruit and retain educators could also be compromised if states need to compensate for lost federal support.

She called these actions "lawless" and argued that withholding congressionally approved funds is a form of government overreach. Weingarten also criticized broader policies from the Trump administration, stating they prioritize tax cuts for billionaires over essential services like healthcare and food security.

"We urge the Education Department to do the right thing and release these critical resources now," she concluded. "Withholding them achieves no purpose and students will be harmed."

The statement was issued by Randi Weingarten along with Fedrick C. Ingram, Secretary-Treasurer, and Evelyn DeJesus, Executive Vice President of AFT.