Washington Update, April 7, 2025
Dear Colleagues:
As we enter spring, we’re also entering a period of rapid and consequential change in federal education policy. These updates can feel relentless—especially when the implications reach into your classrooms, your research labs, and your efforts to prepare the next generation of educators. This Washington Update is designed to help cut through the noise and offer a clear picture of what’s shifting, what it means, and how it might affect your work.
I’m sharing this with deep respect for the roles you each play—whether you’re leading critical special education research, shaping future educators through your programs, or training doctoral candidates to become tomorrow’s scholars. Policy decisions happening now will ripple far into the future, and your insight and leadership continue to be essential.
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1. COVID-Relief Spending Extensions Rescinded
On March 28, the U.S. Department of Education unexpectedly rescinded previously granted extensions that allowed states to spend remaining COVID-relief funds. States were informed they had to liquidate all remaining funds by that same day, a sharp reversal from earlier guidance that gave states until March 2026. This policy shift could result in up to $4.4 billion in unreleased funds, leaving state and local education agencies scrambling to cover gaps they thought were already accounted for. Many had already spent the funds and were simply waiting for federal reimbursement. The abrupt change raises serious concerns about planning, transparency, and fiscal stability.
2. Guidance on Title I and School Choice
Earlier this week, ED issued a letter reminding states of existing flexibility in using Title I funds to support educational choice initiatives. While this does not represent a policy change, the letter aligns with the Administration’s January executive order on expanding educational freedom. It’s likely a preview of the FY 2026 budget proposal, which may include restructuring Title I into a more flexible, less regulated block grant. This would shift decision-making to the state level and reduce federal oversight—changes that could have long-term implications for students in high-poverty schools.
3. Senate Hearing Highlights Education Funding in Tribal Communities
In testimony before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, Nicole Russell (NAFIS) emphasized the critical role of Impact Aid in supporting schools that serve federally impacted communities. Ahniwake Rose (AIHEC) spoke powerfully about how federal support, including Pell Grants and other aid, sustains Tribal Colleges and Universities and the communities they serve. Both leaders made clear that they do not support dismantling the Department of Education, reinforcing the importance of stable, direct federal support.
4. Sudden Layoffs at HHS Impact Early Learning Programs
On April 1, HHS began widespread layoffs with little advance notice. The directive reportedly required agencies to revert staffing to 90% of 2019 levels, but the process appeared chaotic, affecting senior leadership and front-line staff alike. Head Start regional offices were hit particularly hard—these offices provide critical support directly to grantees. The disruption threatens oversight and service continuity for programs that serve our youngest learners and their families.
5. FY 2026 Appropriations Guidance Released
The House Appropriations Committee has opened its FY 2026 request process. Members of Congress may submit programmatic and language requests by May 23 for the Labor-HHS-Education bill. Consistent with recent years, the House bill will not include earmarks. Senate guidance is expected soon. Now is the time to engage your Representatives about the needs of your schools and programs.
6. CEF Advocacy and Emerging Budget Threats
The Committee for Education Funding (CEF), of which TED is a proud member, sent a letter to Congress opposing any reconciliation provisions that cut education programs or related student supports. The letter highlights the long-standing underfunding of public education and notes recent cuts to ED’s appropriations—even as need has increased. Proposed changes could make higher education less affordable and limit access to critical programs across the continuum of learning, including research, educator preparation, and doctoral training.
7. Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) at Risk of Closure
Following a March 14 Executive Order, nearly all IMLS staff were placed on leave, signaling an intent to eliminate the agency. The move comes just days after a bipartisan group of senators urged the Administration to uphold its obligations under the Museum and Library Services Act. The potential closure raises broader concerns that other agencies—such as CNCS, NEA, and NEH—may also be targeted. These institutions play an essential role in providing inclusive learning opportunities and supporting the cultural and civic fabric of our communities.
8. Federal Review of Harvard Grants and Contracts
The Department of Education, HHS, and GSA announced a joint review of nearly $9 billion in federal funding awarded to Harvard University as part of the Administration’s broader response to concerns about antisemitism. Harvard leadership has cautioned that halting these funds could significantly disrupt life-saving research and academic innovation. The review is part of a larger list of institutions under federal scrutiny.
9. Reconciliation and Budget Strategy
Congressional leaders aim to finalize a joint FY 2025 budget resolution in the coming weeks. This action could pave the way for a reconciliation bill with major implications for education funding, taxes, and domestic spending. Although details remain fluid, reconciliation could include extensions of tax cuts and deep, multi-year reductions in non-defense discretionary programs. Advocates are encouraged to engage now—before decisions are finalized.
10. Congressional Hearing on AI in Education
On April 1, the House Education and Workforce Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education held a hearing titled "From Chalkboards to Chatbots," exploring the growing role of artificial intelligence in K–12 education. The discussion included both opportunities and challenges, particularly around data privacy, instructional quality, and access.
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We are in a moment that calls for deep resolve and collaboration. The path ahead may be uncertain, but our purpose remains steady: to advocate for every learner’s right to grow and thrive—and to protect the pipeline of research, training, and support that makes this possible. Whether you are mentoring future educators, leading transformative research, or navigating uncertainty within your program, your leadership and perspective are essential.
Let’s keep showing up, speaking out, and supporting one another in this work.
With appreciation and resolve,
Kait
@brennan_kait
