Colorado education leaders are warning of devastating impacts after the Trump administration abruptly froze over $70 million in federal K-12 education funding, just hours before it was set to be released on July 1.
The sudden freeze is part of a broader $6.8 billion national pause on education funding, catching school districts across the state off guard. With the school year fast approaching, officials say they’re now facing potential layoffs, canceled programs, and reduced services—especially in rural and underfunded communities.
What’s at Risk?
The withheld funds include Title I-IV grants, which support:
-
After-school and summer programs
-
Services for English learners and migrant students
-
Teacher development and curriculum
-
Adult education programs
In total, the Colorado Department of Education estimates this will impact up to $80 million in programming. Districts had already budgeted this money toward staff salaries, learning materials, and critical student support services.
“Without a doubt, people will lose jobs with very little notice,” said Kathy Gebhardt, State Board of Education member.
Rural Districts Hit Hardest
For some rural communities, the loss is devastating.
-
Lake County School District, for example, stands to lose $400,000—two-thirds of its total budget.
-
Mesa County Valley faces the biggest cut at $2 million.
Meanwhile, more affluent districts like Steamboat Springs are relatively insulated, with the withheld funds making up less than 1% of their budget.
“Districts serving high-poverty families will be challenged the most,” Gebhardt added.
These communities are already struggling with teacher shortages, long commutes, and limited childcare, and rely heavily on federally funded after-school programs that provide meals and supervision.
Impact on Families and Nonprofits
Programs like the Boys & Girls Clubs, which serve over 70,000 Colorado children, are now warning families that their services may be cut if funding doesn’t come through.
“We’ll have to reduce hours and the number of kids we serve,” said Stuart Jenkins, executive director of the Colorado Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs.
Confusion and Criticism
The Trump administration claims the freeze is to ensure the funding aligns with its priorities. However, state officials and educators say the timing is unprecedented and disruptive.
-
Governor Jared Polis and U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet are urging federal agencies to release the funds.
-
Some worry the move is part of a broader effort to undermine public education.
“They’re looking at the numbers without understanding the impact on students and families,” Gebhardt said.
In response, the Colorado Department of Education has frozen hiring and pay raises, while districts have begun alerting staff that job cuts may be imminent.
What Happens Now?
With school set to start in a matter of weeks, some districts have 10 days or less to make tough decisions.
“We can either reduce staff and run a lean version of our offerings, or reduce hours and overall services,” said Lake County Superintendent Kate Bartlett.
While legal action remains a possibility, no lawsuits have been filed yet. A special legislative session may be called to address budget shortfalls, though that would likely result in cuts to healthcare and other services, not a fix for education.
“What we’ve learned is you can’t count on anything until the money’s actually in the bank,” Gebhardt said. “And even then, you may not be able to count on it.”
This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.
Leave a Reply