Jul 22 Federal Funding for Education Programs Frozen

(July 22, 2025)

UPDATE 7/28/25: Education funding has been unfrozen – read more at EducationWeek

In recent weeks, the Trump Administration has frozen $6 billion in federal funding for schools and other crucial federal programs that typically benefit the most needy students in a district or community. No specific reason has been given on why these already appropriated funds are being withheld from states. Some groups speculate that the administration is withholding funds for programs that they believe are being used for DEI activities.

In response to the withholding of federal funds, multiple states, including Pennsylvania, have joined a lawsuit to sue the administration for not releasing already appropriated funds. The freeze impacts teacher recruitment, rural education, civics education, professional development, English language learners, adult education. Approximately $230 million dollars are being withheld from Pennsylvania.

There was recently some good news that the administration will begin to release 21st Century Community Learning Centers funding. This decision is on the heels of 10 Republican Senators who urged the administration to release the funds to states. Hopefully in the next few weeks the remaining federal funds will be released.

Jamie Baxter, Allies for Children Executive Director