School Funding Freeze by Trump Puts Millions of Students and Teachers at Risk -

School funding in the United States has been thrown into turmoil after former President Donald Trump’s administration froze between 5 billion and 6.8 billion dollars meant for states and local districts. The sudden halt affects schools in at least 33 states and territories, leaving educators and families unsure of how to move forward. The money, originally scheduled to be distributed on July 1, 2025, was withheld while the Department of Education conducts a review.

This unexpected freeze has disrupted plans schools had already made, putting critical programs and jobs at risk.

What Was the School Funding For?

The frozen funds were allocated to support vital educational programs, including:

Teacher training and professional development (Title II-A)
After-school and summer learning opportunities (21st Century Community Learning Centers)
Student mental health and academic support services (Title IV-A)
Programs for English language learners (Title III-A)
Assistance for migrant students (Title I-C)

These funds play an essential role in helping schools provide quality education, especially for vulnerable groups like English learners, migrant children, and students who rely on mental health and academic support.

Why the Freeze Matters

The withheld school funding represents more than 10 percent of the federal money schools typically depend on each year. Without it, many districts face the risk of cutting programs, laying off staff, or canceling after-school and summer offerings.

According to Newsweek, the freeze could lead to larger class sizes, fewer services, and reduced support for the students who need it most. Schools may find it difficult to hire teachers, provide extra academic help, or run enrichment activities.

Reactions From States and Education Leaders

The freeze has sparked concern and outrage across the country. Carissa Moffat Miller, an education policy leader, said schools urgently need these funds to prepare for summer and fall programs.

In California alone, at least 811 million dollars of funding is now in limbo. David Schapira, a senior official in the state, called the freeze illegal and politically motivated. “This is based on politics, not law,” he told ABC7 News.

Tara Thomas, spokesperson for AASA, the national school superintendents group, noted that districts are now left trying to meet mandates without the resources they were promised.

Legal Challenges Ahead

Federal law makes it clear that once Congress approves school funding, the president cannot block it unless Congress agrees within 45 days. If Congress does not approve a formal rescission, the funds must be released.

California has successfully challenged similar moves before and may take legal action again. State officials have already said they are prepared to go to court if necessary.

Why Trump Froze the Funds

The White House said it wants to review or cut programs that do not align with Trump’s education priorities. These include diversity initiatives and bilingual education programs, which Trump has long opposed.

Reports suggest that Trump’s budget director, Russell Vought, may try to use a tactic called a “pocket rescission” — a way to quietly cancel unspent funds by delaying them until they can no longer be used.

The Department of Education has not said when its review will be finished or whether the funding will eventually be released. If the administration takes no action within 45 days, the law requires the funds to go to schools unless Congress agrees to cancel them.

The Uncertain Road Ahead

For now, schools are left in a difficult position. They planned their budgets and programs counting on this school funding, but now they face uncertainty. Without a resolution, students and teachers may bear the brunt of these delays.

As legal battles loom, states like California are gearing up to challenge the freeze and fight for the resources their schools desperately need.