Trump administration withholds nearly $6.9 billion in K-12 education funding

Almost $6.9 billion in federal K–12 education funding, typically distributed to states on July 1, is currently withheld, according to the U.S. Department of Education. Despite a continuing resolution passed by Congress in March and signed by President Trump to extend previous funding levels through fiscal year 2025, the Department is moving towards "impoundment," which involves illegally withholding funds appropriated by Congress for federal programs.

These funds are essential for curriculum, technology, and other services. The withholding impacts thousands of school districts nationwide. If not released soon, schools may need to cut educators’ salaries and reduce reading and math supports, student services including summer and after-school programs, as well as support for migrant students and English learners. Educator layoffs could result in larger class sizes.

NEA President Becky Pringle commented: “School hasn't even started and this administration is robbing our students and classrooms. It's shocking, but not surprising, considering the lack of concern for students that this administration has displayed since day 1."

Pringle added: “Withholding billions in promised federal education funding that students need—and states had planned to use to support children in their states—is a cruel betrayal of students, especially those who rely on critical support services. Schools are already grappling with severe teacher shortages, burnout, and under-resourced classrooms, and here comes the federal government ripping resources away from public schools. It is outrageous and unconscionable."

She further stated: “Sadly, this is part of a broader pattern by this administration of undermining public education—starving it of resources, sowing distrust, and pushing privatization at the expense of the nation’s most vulnerable students. And they are doing this at the same time as they push a budget bill that will devastate our schools and communities—all to finance massive tax breaks for billionaires."

Pringle concluded: “Educators and parents will not be silent while students are undervalued, unheard, and unsupported. The Trump administration must release these critical funds as required by law. We will stand up, speak out, and take action to ensure every classroom is a place of dignity, opportunity, and respect.”

The National Education Association (NEA) represents over 3 million educators across various roles including elementary teachers to higher education faculty.