Archive for July 2025
ED Releases Withheld Funds to Education Grantees
On July 30, the U.S. Department of Education (USED) released funds to states that had previously been withheld under Titles I-C, II-A, III-A, and IV-A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, as well as the Adult Education and Family Literacy Act. According to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), USED officials indicated that new “guardrails” will be implemented to ensure the funds are used in alignment with administration policies. However, the specifics of these additional guardrails remain unclear.
Read MoreED Issues Guidance on State ESEA Waivers
On July 29, the U.S. Department of Education sent a letter to all SEA leaders inviting them to utilize ESEA waiver processes to reduce statutory and regulatory burdens and be more innovative.
Read More(Updated) Administration Moves to Disqualify Immigrant Students from Head Start and Certain CTE Programs
This article summarizes recent actions by the Trump administration invoking the 1996 PRWORA law to restrict immigrant families from accessing federally funded education programs, including Head Start and dual enrollment. The move has raised legal and equity concerns, particularly about student documentation requirements and a possible challenge to Plyler v. Doe.
Read More(Updated) FY25 Funding Freeze
On June 30, the U.S. Department of Education (USED) announced it would not release FY25 funds for several key federal education programs as appropriated by Congress. These programs represent over $6 billion in federal support that school districts across the country have already budgeted for and are depending on to provide essential services and supports to students.
Read MoreED and DOL Interagency Agreement re: Perkins
On July 15, the U.S. Department of Education announced the “Workforce Development Partnership” which will allow Department of Labor to take on a greater role in administering career and technical education (CTE) programs funded by the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act (Perkins V). According to a FAQ document, “the programs will be managed alongside ED staff, with continued leadership and oversight by ED.”
Read MoreCall to Action: Urge the White House to Release FY25 Title Funds
We need your help to urge the Trump Administration to release FY25 funds that are being withheld from public schools. Contact your members of Congress and urge them to request the immediate release of these funds.
Read MoreAESA Joins 600 Organizations to Urge the Administration to Release FY25 Funds Immediately
AESA Joins 600 Organizations to Urge the Administration to Release FY25 Funds Immediately
Read MoreHHS Policy Change Could Impact Head Start and Other Programs
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it is reinterpreting eligibility provisions for certain programs. Under this new interpretation, services will no longer be provided to undocumented immigrants, even in programs where immigration status has not historically been a barrier to access—including Head Start.
Read MoreJune 2025: AESA State Examiner
This month’s June 2025 report explores how various state definitions enable Educational Service Agencies (ESAs) to qualify as Local Education Agencies (LEAs) under federal law.
Read MoreFY25 Federal Funding Delay & Reconciliation Bill Passed with Voucher Provisions
Federal education policy is shifting rapidly—and this week has brought a wave of significant, fast-moving developments. We’re committed to keeping members informed and ready to respond in real time.
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