KCHW NEWS REPORTS

Students and educators in Washington can breathe a sigh of relief as the Trump administration moves to release $5.5 billion in federal education funding that had been frozen since late June. The funding supports critical public school services, including before- and after-school care, migrant education, English language learning, and special education programs.

The funding had been part of a larger $6.8 billion federal education package expected by states on July 1. However, the administration delayed the release, drawing sharp criticism from lawmakers and state education officials. On July 18, $1.3 billion was released following bipartisan pressure from members of Congress. The remainder is now being distributed to state education agencies.

Washington officials had warned that a permanent freeze would have caused a $137 million cut in K-12 funding for the state, with potential impacts ranging from job losses among school staff to a reduction in essential student services. In response, Washington joined more than 20 other states and the District of Columbia in suing the Trump administration, alleging the freeze violated federal law and imposed discriminatory conditions.

The Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) emphasized that the delay placed school districts in financial uncertainty just weeks before the new school year. Programs for students from low-income families, migrant communities, English learners, and those with disabilities were among the most at risk.

Washington’s congressional delegation also stepped in, with several members calling for the immediate release of funds before the August 1 deadline. While the funds are now being distributed, concerns remain about the precedent of withholding critical education dollars and the uncertainty surrounding the administration’s next steps.

Attorney General Nick Brown indicated that the legal challenge remains in place until full transparency is achieved through the forthcoming award documents. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the administration is held accountable for any further disruptions.