In a significant development for educational institutions nationwide, the Trump administration has commenced the distribution of substantial grant funds that were previously on hold throughout July.
The U.S. Department of Education had initially planned to allocate approximately $6 billion intended for five federal programs by July 1. However, a decision was made to withhold the funds to review the grants and ensure their alignment with President Donald Trump’s policy objectives. For more information, visit this article.
This decision significantly impacted states like Arizona, which was left without access to around $118 million, crucial for supporting various educational services, including before- and after-school initiatives and resources for English language learners.
The release of these funds was prompted by numerous legal challenges and bipartisan requests from Congress members advocating for states such as Arizona, where schools are preparing for the new academic year.
Among those pressing for the release were U.S. Representatives Greg Stanton and Yassamin Ansari, along with Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, all representing Arizona.
Ruben Gallego expressed his relief in a statement, noting: “I’m glad the Trump administration backed down and unfroze the Congressionally-appropriated grants it was withholding from Arizona schools, but that money should never have been frozen in the first place. The funding freeze forced schools to delay hiring and scramble to adjust just weeks before the school year starts. It created chaos for educators and uncertainty for families. I’m glad it’s over and proud to have fought to make it happen.”
Earlier in the week, Tom Horne, Superintendent of Public Instruction, had committed to compensating for some of the withheld funds, which were designated for school resource officers. Upon the release of the funds, Horne reassured: “When the pause occurred, a lot of people panicked thinking the money would go away entirely. I said at the time that this was merely a pause for review and that is exactly what happened. The Arizona Department of Education staff will work very hard to disburse these funds as soon as possible.” For further details, you can read the full statement here.
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