Last week, billions in critical federal education funds — already approved by Congress for Fiscal Year 2025 — were withheld by the U.S. Department of Education. Denying these funds deprives critical resources to students who face the greatest barriers to opportunity, and will have devastating impacts. The Tennesseans stripped of education resources include:
- Migrant students who need support as their families move for work will lose $1.5M in funding that helps them stay on track.
- English learners who are working hard to build both language and academic skills will lose $10M.
- Students who rely on academic enrichment, mental health, and technology supports will lose $25.2M risking their ability to access the tools they need to learn.
- Educators who rely on professional learning to grow in their practice and meet student needs will lose $45.6M minimizing their ability to strengthen their teaching and give students the high quality education they deserve.
- Families who depend on after-school and summer programs that help students thrive will lose $24M in support.
- Adults who are learning to read, pursuing a high school equivalency diploma, and developing English proficiency will lose$12.8M cutting critical resources that support their ability to gain employment and be active participants in their communities.
These programs are not optional — they are foundational to a just and effective education system. Denying Tennesseans these funds is already resulting in real consequences for schools and communities.
That’s why EdTrust-Tennessee is joining our national office and other national partners in calling on Congress to take immediate action. We’re urging members to withhold confirmation of Department of Education nominees until these funds are fully released, and to direct the Government Accountability Office to investigate whether the Department’s actions violate federal law.
We cannot allow administrative inaction to undermine the intent of Congress and the needs of students. Together, we must hold decision makers accountable and ensure that every student — no matter their background, zip code, or language spoken at home — has access to the resources they need to learn and succeed.
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