Education Department Releases $1.3 Billion for After-School Programs Amid Ongoing Funding Battle
Education Department Releases $1.3 Billion for After-School Programs Amid Ongoing Funding Battle
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Education Department has commenced the release of $1.3 billion in previously withheld grant money designated for vital after-school and summer programs. This move follows a period of intense pressure from lawmakers and states after the Trump administration froze over $6 billion in federal education grants on July 1.
The decision to release these funds, confirmed by a senior official on Friday, July 18, comes just days after 10 Republican senators sent a letter imploring the administration to unfreeze the money. Additionally, on Monday, July 14, more than 20 states, led by California, filed a lawsuit challenging the broader $6 billion funding freeze, arguing it was unconstitutional and jeopardized critical services for low-income families.
While the release of funds for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers is a welcome development for school districts and nonprofits like the YMCA and Boys and Girls Club of America, the two-week period of uncertainty has already caused significant disruption. Many programs had made plans to close or scale back, impacting hiring and contracting for the fall.
Despite this partial victory, nearly $5 billion in federal grants — including funds for adult literacy and English language instruction — remain under review by the Office of Management and Budget for alleged bias. Education Secretary Linda McMahon, along with various senators and education advocates, continues to call for the immediate release of the remaining appropriated funds, emphasizing the critical role they play in supporting communities and children nationwide.
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