Highlights
- The Trump administration has frozen $6.8 billion in federal education funds, affecting programs for English learners and migrant children.
- California faces a loss of at least $811 million, impacting staff, programs, and services already budgeted for the new school year.
- Critics, including state officials, argue the move is illegal and harmful, especially for vulnerable students.
- The administration defends the decision as aligning with its policy goals to emphasize English primacy and limit federal oversight.
- Legal challenges are likely, as Congress—not the executive branch—has the authority to withhold appropriated funds.
In a move already generating sharp criticism and likely legal challenges, the Trump administration has frozen approximately $6.8 billion in federal education funding, including at least $811 million slated for California, disrupting essential services for English learners and migrant children nationwide.
Federal Cuts Hit Core Programs
The cuts affect Title III-A and Title I-C programs—vital sources of support for English language learners and students from migrant families. These funds, already approved by Congress for the 2024–25 fiscal year, were scheduled to be released to states on July 1.
However, in a brief, 84-word email sent Monday, the U.S. Department of Education said it was halting the funds pending further review to ensure “alignment with the President’s priorities.”
Although the withheld amount comprises less than 1% of California’s total education budget, the impact is significant, particularly because staff have been hired and programs planned around the expected funds. “Trump is illegally impounding billions of dollars appropriated by Congress,” said California State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, calling the move “worse than we imagined.”
Rationale and Pushback
The administration justifies the freeze as part of its broader budget strategy, which seeks to reduce federal involvement in education and prioritize English primacy. The White House budget proposal argues that bilingual education programs “de-emphasize English” and that migrant education services “encourage instability.”
Advocates reject this framing. Martha Hernandez, executive director of Californians Together, noted, “These funds help students learn English. The majority of English learners are already in English-only settings.”
Critics also argue that the freeze undermines stability for migrant families. Los Angeles and Nebraska programs use the funding to provide continuous education for students who frequently move across districts.
Legal and Political Consequences Ahead
Federal law bars the executive branch from unilaterally withholding funds Congress has allocated. Any such move requires congressional approval within 45 days of a formal request—none of which appears to have occurred yet.
Legal experts expect swift court challenges, with potential involvement from both blue and red states.
As of Monday evening, neither the U.S. Department of Education nor the Office of Management and Budget had commented further.
Also in the News:
- Harvard and University of Toronto make contingency plan for international students
- The Financial Aid For GED
Looking to Advance Your Career?
Boost your professional journey with Prepsaret! Whether you’re pursuing PMP, CompTIA, or HR certifications, Prepsaret is your go-to study companion.
Unlock top-quality resources, practice exams, and expert support designed to help you succeed on test day and move your career to the next level!