$6 Billion School Funding Freeze Ignites Fury Over ‘Heartless Betrayal’ of Students

This story was initially reported by The 19th.

State officials and teacher union leaders are reacting strongly to President Donald Trump’s decision to freeze over $6 billion in federal K-12 education funding. Critics argue that this move further undermines schools, following earlier cuts and layoffs within the Department of Education that raised alarm about the future of public education in the United States.

The Trump administration informed school officials that funding, typically released on July 1, will be withheld. This funding is crucial for various services, including reading and math support, summer and after-school programs, and assistance for migrant students as well as English learners.

California and Texas, the nation’s two largest states, are expected to suffer the most significant losses. However, all states will feel the impact if those funds are not released soon.

The National Education Association (NEA), the largest labor union in the nation, warns that schools may have to cut educator salaries or implement layoffs. NEA President Becky Pringle labeled the freeze “outrageous and unconscionable.”

“Withholding billions in promised federal education funding is a cruel betrayal of students who need critical support services,” Pringle stated. She emphasized that schools are already dealing with severe teacher shortages and under-resourced classrooms, making this federal intervention particularly damaging.

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), described the funding freeze as “illegal” and indicative of an ideological agenda to undermine public education. She noted that the affected programs had received congressional approval.

Weingarten further criticized the Trump administration for not releasing essential federal funds, stating that the delay jeopardizes educational services for children. As a result, public school leaders are left uncertain about the upcoming school year’s services and personnel.

California’s superintendent of public instruction, Tony Thurmond, estimated that the state might be denied about $1 billion. He criticized the administration for failing to legally justify the funding freeze. “The administration is punishing children simply because states refuse to align with Trump’s political agenda,” Thurmond added.

Moreover, the Texas AFT estimates that the Lone Star State will lose approximately $660.8 million unless the funds are released soon, further complicating the state’s ongoing teacher shortage.

Zeph Capo, president of Texas AFT, expressed outrage at the freeze, particularly concerning its impact on educational programs aimed at boosting student achievement. He questioned why Texas lawmakers remained silent about Trump’s funding cuts, positing that their inaction reflects a shared objective of undermining public education.

National education leaders have pointed out that this funding freeze aligns with recent legislative initiatives, which they argue will negatively affect children across the nation. The Senate recently passed Trump’s so-called One Big Beautiful Bill, which has moved to the House for consideration. Weingarten deemed the legislation a “big, ugly betrayal,” arguing it would have dire consequences, including cutting healthcare for millions and reducing essential food assistance for children.