Trump Administration Releases Grant Funds for Public Schools

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Remember when the Trump Administration decided to freeze more than $5 billion in education grant funding – prompting many states, including North Carolina, to file suit?

Well, on Friday, the U.S. Department of Education announced it’s releasing those funds to the states, which will allow them to be properly disbursed to school districts like Durham Public Schools.

“I am relieved to hear that the U.S. Department of Education will begin releasing billions in previously approved withheld funds to our districts so that we all may continue the important work of educating our scholars,” said Dr. Anthony Lewis, DPS superintendent. “Durham Public Schools opened its doors to thousands of year-round students on July 21, and we, along with other school districts nationwide, are preparing to welcome our traditional and innovative school scholars to the 2025-26 school year in August.

“This funding supports essential services for our scholars, teachers, and leaders. Its absence would have jeopardized programs serving many of Durham’s most vulnerable families.”

North Carolina’s attorney general, Jeff Jackson, celebrated the news Friday, saying in a statement: “National reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Education has backed down and is releasing all frozen funds – $6.8 billion nationwide, including $165 million for North Carolina – after we filed suit last week. This should end weeks of uncertainty – our schools can now plan, hire, and prepare for a strong year ahead. ”

Mo Green, the state’s superintendent of public instruction, said: “It is good to see the federal government honor its commitment to our students, our educators, and our schools. I hope this resolution and the release of funds next week marks a return to the predictable, reliable federal partnership that our schools need to serve students effectively.”

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