WASHINGTON (WDNews) — The Trump administration has frozen over $6 billion in federal education grants, affecting summer camps, after-school programs, English language classes, and adult literacy efforts. The funding is under review to ensure it aligns with President Donald Trump’s priorities, according to the U.S. Department of Education.
The delay has left schools and programs nationwide scrambling. Many were counting on the money to fund services for low-income families this summer and into the next school year.
In Alabama, Gadsden City Schools may shut down after-school care for over 1,200 students if the funding isn’t released. “It would be devastating if we lost the lifeline of afterschool for our students and our families,” said program director Janie Browning.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of America also rely on the grants. Club President Jim Clark warned that up to 926 locations could close, affecting more than 220,000 kids.
The freeze includes six major grant programs, such as the 21st Century Community Learning Centers, which support after-school and summer learning in all 50 states.
Education leaders in states like California, Texas, and Washington say the freeze is creating chaos, with some accusing the administration of illegally withholding funds approved by Congress. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., urged the administration to release the money as intended.
Superintendent Heidi Sipe in rural Oregon said the freeze may force her district to end summer school early and cut fall programs. “It feels preventable,” she said. “We could have done a better job planning for America’s children.”
The administration has not said when—or if—the money will be released.
