Trump Administration Freezes Over $61 Million in Nevada School Funds, Jeopardizing Critical Services

In Nevada, this freeze affects over $61 million in funding for Nevada programs.

"Against the backdrop of a budget bill that threatens to strip health care from millions of Americans and cut off food assistance for millions of children, today’s harmful and perplexing decision by the Department of Education puts essential after-school programs, teacher training, and support for migrant students at serious risk,” said Dawn Etcheverry, President of the Nevada State Education Association. “Just weeks after Nevada’s Governor and Legislature approved a mere $2 increase in per-pupil funding, forcing districts to confront immediate budget shortfalls, this federal freeze creates yet another burden. Our schools are now under even greater pressure to maintain critical programs while trying to balance already strained budgets for the year ahead.”

According to the Department of Education, states will not receive expected funds from the following key programs:

• Title I-C for migrant education
• Title II-A for professional development
• Title III-A for English-learner services
• Title IV-A for academic enrichment
• Title IV-B for before- and after-school programs

Each July 1, states receive the bulk of their federal education dollars allocated by Congress for the upcoming school year. The sudden withholding of these funds is not only disruptive, it may be unlawful. Districts use these funds to pay for educator salaries, fulfill vendor contracts, purchase curriculum and technology, and support other essential needs.

Further, school districts count on these critical funds to meet federal requirements. With this funding now in jeopardy, districts will be forced to cut student services or find alternative resources if the money arrives late or not at all. This comes at a time when Nevada’s education system is already under immense financial pressure, with no new revenue passed last legislative session. “Stripping away these resources forces schools to shoulder yet another round of unfunded mandates, deepening financial strain, and diminishing the quality of education for students in every classroom,” Etcheverry added.

This is yet another decision by the anti-public education administration to advance policies that eliminate essential support and protections for students and divert funds away from our school districts. By impounding funds appropriated by Congress, the administration is actively harming students and educators, likely violating the law.

The Nevada State Education Association stands ready to join the movement to stop these harmful actions and defend public education.