MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
TOPEKA — Kansas education officials say nearly $50 million in federal funding for student learning, teacher development and other support services is now in limbo after the U.S. Department of Education abruptly delayed payments that had already been appropriated by Congress.
Kansas Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson said he was notified late on Monday, June 30, that the federal agency is reviewing several Title programs — leaving Kansas districts without a clear timeline for when the money will arrive, or if it will come at all.
“Normally we would receive notice by July 1 that these funds are being awarded for the coming school year,” Watson said. “Now, the funding for these programs remains uncertain as we wait for the U.S. Department of Education’s review.”
The delay affects multiple programs that provide critical support for Kansas students and teachers:
- Title I, Part C: Migrant Education ($6.2 million) — Supports students from families who move frequently for work in industries like agriculture and food processing.
- Title II, Part A: Teacher and School Leader Supports ($15.8 million) — Funds professional development for teachers and school leaders to improve curriculum and instruction.
- Title III, Part A: English Learners ($4.8 million) — Provides services for English learners, the state’s fastest-growing student population.
- Title IV, Part A: Student Support and Academic Enrichment ($8.3 million) — Helps schools offer well-rounded education, safe learning conditions, and expanded use of technology.
- Title IV, Part B: 21st Century Community Learning Centers ($7.8 million) — Provides before- and after-school programs in high-poverty and low-performing schools.
Watson warned that cuts to Title II-A and Title IV-A in particular could hit rural districts the hardest. Many rural schools rely on federal funds through the Rural Education Achievement Program, which gives them flexibility to use broader federal funds to meet local needs.
In addition to the delayed Title programs, the U.S. Department of Education has also suspended payments for adult basic and literacy education, including GED completion programs overseen by the Kansas Board of Regents.
“We don’t know when the review of these and other programs will be completed or if we will receive the already approved funding,” Watson said. “There is no timetable for when these funds will be released, if ever, and Kansas districts should plan accordingly.”