Hailey
Oklahoma City — The Trump administration has indefinitely halted more than $70 million in federal education funding intended for Oklahoma schools, affecting key programs that serve teachers, English learners, after-school care, migrant students, and more.
The U.S. Department of Education announced on Tuesday that it has frozen six major federal programs, which normally distribute a total of $6.8 billion nationwide.
Officials stated that the funds, which were expected by July 1, 2025—the beginning of the 2026 fiscal year—are being delayed pending further review.
“The department is committed to ensuring that taxpayer money is spent in alignment with the president’s goals and legal mandates,” the agency communicated in a notice sent to states.
Breakdown of Withheld Funds for Oklahoma
The funding pause affects a variety of educational needs across the state:
- $31.37 million allocated for teacher training and development
- $15.68 million for before- and after-school programs
- $6.43 million to support the 13% of Oklahoma students learning English
- $240,000 earmarked for the children of migrant workers
- $7.3 million designated for adult education initiatives
- An additional $16.35 million from Title IV Part A for academic enrichment was also frozen, although Oklahoma’s Education Department reports having received these specific funds for the current fiscal year
Federal funding from the remaining programs, however, has not yet been delivered, the department confirmed last week.
Oklahoma Officials React to Federal Freeze
Ryan Walters, Oklahoma’s State Superintendent, expressed support for the administration’s cautious handling of public funds.
“We appreciate the Trump administration’s careful oversight of taxpayer money,” Walters said. “The Oklahoma State Department of Education is fully aligned with federal efforts to pursue common education priorities.”
Walters also took to social media to mock California, which is likewise affected by the freeze.
In response to California Superintendent Tony Thurmond’s criticism of the decision as harmful to students, Walters suggested the funding issues stem from policies related to Critical Race Theory (CRT), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and LGBTQ+ education practices.
Future of Funding: Program Elimination and Flex Grants Proposed
The U.S. Department of Education has proposed eliminating the affected funding streams in coming years. Instead, the agency wants to consolidate the resources into larger, flexible block grants that give state officials more discretion in how the money is used.
Impact on Oklahoma City Public Schools
The funding freeze is expected to have a serious impact on Oklahoma City Public Schools (OKCPS):
- 47% of students in the district are English language learners
- The district budgeted $1.1 million in Title III funds for these students
- $7.6 million in Title II funds was planned for teacher professional development, a sharp increase from $3.3 million last year
District spokesperson Crystal Raymond emphasized the urgency of restoring the funding:
“We strongly encourage federal leaders to reconsider. These dollars directly fund essential staff and student services,” Raymond stated. “Our educators and students rely on these resources, and we remain focused on their success as we prepare to welcome 33,000 students on August 13.”
Strain on Rural Education: The Case of Eufaula Public Schools
Rural school districts are particularly vulnerable to this funding gap. In Eufaula Public Schools, located in eastern Oklahoma:
- The district receives $300,000 annually from Title IV Part B (21st Century Community Learning Centers) to run after-school and summer programs
- It also depends on about $50,000 from Title II for teacher recruitment and development
- These federal dollars make it possible to offer free childcare and learning support for nearly 180 low-income students
Superintendent Monty Guthrie noted that the rising costs of professional development—exacerbated by the reliance on emergency-certified and adjunct teachers—make the funding especially vital.
“These programs are a lifeline in rural areas with limited childcare options,” Guthrie said. “If we don’t receive funds by November, we may have to shut the programs down, which would be a serious hardship for our families.”
Guthrie added, “We’re continuing to plan as if funding will arrive. If it doesn’t, we’ll have to adapt, but we believe in the value of these services.”
The freezing of over $70 million in federal education aid presents serious challenges for Oklahoma students, teachers, and families, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
While state leaders express confidence in the Trump administration’s approach, school districts warn of significant disruptions if the funding is not restored.
The situation underscores the broader national debate over federal education priorities and funding flexibility.