WASHINGTON: The White House announced Friday that it will release $5.5 billion in education funds that had been frozen just a day before their scheduled July 1 distribution for the 2025–26 school year. The decision followed widespread backlash from educators and bipartisan lawmakers, including several Republican senators.
The funds, approved by Congress, will support teacher training, arts and music education, and English as a second language programs for immigrant children. Madi Biedermann, deputy assistant secretary for communications, confirmed that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has completed its review and directed the Department of Education to begin releasing the money next week.
The Trump administration initially justified the freeze, citing alleged misuse of federal funds to promote a “radical left-wing agenda.” One example referenced was a seminar on “queer resistance in the arts.” The move drew criticism from educators and lawmakers, with American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten calling it an “illegal usurpation of Congress’s authority” that harmed children nationwide.
Ten Republican senators, including former Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, had written a letter urging the administration to reverse its decision. While acknowledging concerns about federal funds, the senators stressed that these grants traditionally support bipartisan programs such as after school initiatives and summer enrichment, which are vital for families and local economies.
Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska, who also pushed for the release, celebrated the news on social media, calling it “exciting” and a victory for schools. The School Superintendents Association also welcomed the decision, with executive director David Schuler noting the importance of timely funding for the nation’s schools.
The release ensures that critical educational programs can proceed as planned for millions of U.S. students in the upcoming school year.
