Trump administration releases withheld K–12 education funding

Earlier today, the U.S. Department of Education announced that it will release all previously withheld federal K–12 funding. This decision was communicated to state education chiefs via email on Friday.

State Superintendent Chris Reykdal commented on this development, saying it is a "welcome change in direction." He noted that school districts, educators, families, and students can now be assured that vital services will not be abruptly ended or reduced in the upcoming school year.

Previously, on June 30, an email was sent to all 50 states indicating that funding was being withheld for further review "in accordance with the President’s priorities." The affected funds included those for migrant education, professional learning for educators, multilingual/English learners, and before- and after-school programs.

If the withholding had been permanent, Washington state would have faced a $137 million decrease in federal K–12 funding. This could have led to financial distress for several school districts and job losses among educators and staff essential to student learning.

Education officials and families across all states advocated for the release of these funds. Congressional lawmakers from both parties urged the Trump Administration to comply with legal requirements and release the essential funding. Additionally, Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown joined 23 other states in a lawsuit against the Department and the U.S. Office of Management and Budget to secure the funds.

Reykdal emphasized that this bipartisan outcome underscores a collective commitment to high-quality public education accessible to all students in America. He stated that targeted investments improve schools, communities, and ultimately the nation's future by supporting every student.