EdTrust-West Statement on Withholding of Federal Education Funding from Dr. Christopher Nellum, Executive Director
We are deeply concerned by the federal government’s harmful decision to withhold nearly $6.8 billion in education funding—money that schools across the country were counting on to support students in the new school year. California alone is losing $811 million. This funding was already approved by Congress and was meant to help schools starting July 1, the first day of the 2025–26 school year.
Taking this money away now is not only potentially illegal—it directly harms students who need the most support. Students learning English, children from migrant families, and those who rely on afterschool programs are especially affected. These funds help pay for tutoring, language support, after-school care, and other essential services. Without them, schools are being forced to scramble to meet students’ needs with fewer resources.
This decision has caused serious disruption for school districts, which are still legally required to provide these services. Instead of focusing on preparing for a successful school year, educators are now trying to figure out how to fill the gap left by this sudden loss of funding.
We stand with Attorney General Rob Bonta in his efforts to challenge this harmful and unjust action in court. We urge school district leaders across California to join him in defending the rights and opportunities of our students.
About EdTrust-West
EdTrust-West is an evidence-driven advocacy organization committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in California’s education system. For over two decades, EdTrust-West has worked to improve racial equity in education by engaging diverse communities and increasing political and public will to build an education system where students of color and multilingual learners will thrive. For more information, see www.edtrustwest.org.
