Trump Administration Holds Back Billions in School Funding Amid Controversy
The recent decision by the Trump administration to withhold approximately $6.2 billion in federal funding has left educational institutions nationwide grappling with uncertainty. Arizona schools are particularly affected, as they face the loss of about $118 million just as they prepare for the new academic year.
Originally scheduled for release by the U.S. Department of Education on July 1, the funds for five federal education programs are now under review. Officials assert that the delay is intended to ensure alignment with “President Trump’s priorities.”
Beth Lewis, who leads Save Our Schools Arizona, an organization supporting public education, expressed skepticism about this rationale. She remarked, “We know that the president is not prioritizing public education. We know that Project 2025 called for the defunding and ultimately the dismantling of public schools and this feels like a huge shot across the bow.”
The withheld grants are critical as they fund essential services such as before and after school programs, support for English language learners and migrant students, academic enrichment, and professional development for teachers.
Lewis highlighted the impending challenges, stating, “We’ve got school starting in two weeks and they are now having to look at all of the programs that they’re gonna have to put on hold because of the lack of funding. It’s truly a nightmare situation for public schools, especially in Arizona because we start so early.”
In response, the Arizona Department of Education has issued a statement indicating its commitment to “working to obtain more information and access the federal funds as soon as possible.”
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