What does threatened federal funding do for California K-12 schools?

The U.S. Department of Education has threatened to cut federal funding from schools and colleges that continue to implement diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. This alarming move has drawn attention from school leaders across the country, with uncertainty surrounding which federal funds may be affected. For example, California schools received approximately $8 billion in federal funding in the 2024-25 fiscal year, making federal funding a significant aspect of many districts' budgets. Additionally, any actual funding cuts would require congressional action, not just an executive order.

"The U.S. Department of Education alarmed school leaders last week by threatening to withhold federal funding from schools and colleges that do not abandon 'diversity, equity and inclusion' programs."

"California K-12 schools received about $8 billion in federal funding in 2024-25... Federal funding may represent a much larger percentage of the budget in some districts, particularly those in rural areas."

Read at The Oaklandside