On June 30, the U.S. Department of Education formally notified states that it would be freezing $6.88 billion in federal grants that were scheduled to be disbursed the next day (July 1). The grants impact many programs serving children and families across the country, including programs focused on after school enrichment, preparing high quality teachers, supporting English language learners, addressing rural technology needs, and more.
On July 25, National PTA along with 193 state and local PTA units sent a letter to the Department of Education Secretary, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and congress to urge them to release the frozen funds. From the letter, "For over 128 years, our association and our members have advocated and worked to ensure all schools and families have the proper resources and support needed to help all children learn, grow and succeed. Today, we urge you to swiftly release ALL the critical funding outlined above for distribution to the schools, families, and children that rely upon it."
Read the full letter below.
To Learn more about how you can advocate, visit: What Can I Do?