Donald Trump administration freezes nearly $7 billion in federal funding, jeopardizing summer and after-school programs nationwide

The Trump administration has paused nearly $7 billion in federal education funding, putting summer and after-school programs across the US at risk. This freeze affects multiple education initiatives aimed at providing academic enrichment and support to underserved students.

States were notified that $6.8 billion in funding would not be released as scheduled pending a federal review.Among the affected funds are resources designated for teacher training, migrant student services, English language programs, and critical out-of-school activities. The freeze delays the distribution of money originally set to be available by July 1, impacting schools and community programs nationwide.Funding freeze impacts key programs supporting underserved studentsThe withheld funding includes $20.6 million in Massachusetts alone allocated for after-school and summer instruction, as well as $30 million for educator development and $20.5 million for English language learners. Migrant education programs in the state are also affected, with $1.3 million withheld. Nationwide, an estimated $6.2 billion in K-12 funds remains unavailable, spread across five federal education programs.

These programs are essential for providing extra academic support, especially in underserved and low-performing schools. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC), a chief source of funding for academic enrichment outside school hours, serves nearly 1.4 million youth through state education agency grants.Impact on after-school and community programs nationwideThe pause in federal funding has drawn attention from national organizations.

Boys and Girls Clubs of America reported that if 21st CCLC funds remain blocked, up to 926 club sites could close. This would disrupt safe environments for children and affect working parents relying on after-school care.The Afterschool Alliance highlighted the bipartisan support for after-school programs and expressed concern over the funding freeze. Many states and territories had already committed resources to summer and after-school programs expecting the federal dollars.Federal review delays distribution of education fundsThe US Department of Education’s decision to withhold these funds came as a last-minute notice to states. The department is conducting a review of the education programs supported by this funding. The pause includes programs for teacher development, migrant and English learner education, and community learning initiatives.The funding freeze affects public schools and community organizations across the US, creating uncertainty for the upcoming school year. The nearly $7 billion in federal funds remains on hold until the department completes its evaluation.

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