Federal education funding freeze threatens Texas schools and summer learning

Date Posted: 7/03/2025 | Author: Heather Sheffield
On the evening of June 30, the Trump Administration unexpectedly declined to release nearly $7 billion in federal education funding that had already been approved by Congress. This abrupt decision includes withholding more than $660 million designated for Texas. The money represents over 16% of the state’s K-12 federal education funding and directly supports after-school programs, summer learning, English language services, and teacher training. Some of the payments were scheduled to be made July 1, and the sudden announcement left expected funding recipients across the country scrambling.
For years, Texas leaders, Republicans and Democrats alike, have championed expanded summer learning and enrichment opportunities to help close achievement gaps. The unexpected freeze not only undercuts these bipartisan efforts but also jeopardizes essential services for millions of students and families who rely on stable funding for extended-day programs and academic support.
The U.S. Department of Education offered little explanation for halting the funds, stating only that the money is under review to ensure spending aligns with President Donald Trump’s priorities. Meanwhile, education groups, local school districts, and parent advocates warn that this unprecedented action could devastate critical student services just weeks before the new school year begins. The freeze has been described as “catastrophic” and “lawless,” pointing out that Congress alone holds the purse strings and has already appropriated these funds.
Should the President formally request to rescind this funding, it would require Congress to approve the “clawback” within 45 days. In the meantime, uncertainty looms for school budgets and planning for programs that help millions of underserved students nationwide.
ATPE is asking the Texas Congressional delegation to intervene by demanding that the overdue funds be released and rejecting any clawback attempt by the Trump Administration. We also urge educators and community members to speak up now. Use ATPE’s Advocacy Central to send a message to your U.S. House member or U.S. Senator and share why Texas schools need the immediate release of these vital funds.
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How can public schools continue to be hurt by lack of funds? The majority of our population attends or has attended public schools. We must continue to have financial support to ensure our children receive the best education possible and all the support they need. I am proud to have taught over 41 years in the public school system, and I hope to continue being proud of our country.
The Governor should be up in arms about this, in addition to TEA and every citizen of Texas. And, of course, Congress, who already cleared these funds for schools across the United States. Please help to get this information out to all media outlets and thank you for your work on behalf of Texas schools, students and educators
Nothing this man does is big and beautiful except in his small mind. Withholding funds that have already been approved by Congress is another example of his mistaken ideas of the legal extent of presidential powers not to mention his disdain for the plight his attempted actions place on the schools and the affected students in summer programs. WHEN will Congress take back their rightful powers? Show Trump what real clawback looks like! Our schools and students deserve this money and their opportunity to achieve a better education way more than a tax break for the wealthy!
These funds are needed to support students in Texas!
I urge you to intervene to release more than $660 million of overdue funds to Texas schools. That money had already been appropriated for Texas public schools by Congress. Reject any effort by the Trump administration to clawback the funds. Thank you.