DENVER ~ In a recent turn of events, the United States Department of Education has announced that it will be withholding $71 million in education grants from Colorado. These grants are crucial for funding afterschool and summer programs, teacher salaries, language courses, and professional development. This decision has caused great concern for students, educators, and districts in Colorado as many schools have already finalized their budgets for the upcoming school year.

The funding freeze is a result of federal title funds being withheld, which are used to improve educator effectiveness and provide safe and enriching academic settings for students throughout the year. This freeze has put schools in a difficult position as they rely on this funding to support migratory children and English language learners. Without it, they face serious financial pressure in the coming school year.

Governor Jared Polis expressed his disappointment with the federal government's decision, stating that this funding was already obligated and it is absurd that it was withheld. He emphasized that investing in education and ensuring a bright future for Colorado children has been a top priority for his administration. The governor also highlighted the steps taken by his administration to provide free full-day kindergarten and preschool, as well as fully funding Colorado schools. He urged the Trump administration to reconsider this harmful freeze.

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Education Commissioner Susana Córdova echoed Governor Polis' concerns about the impact of this funding freeze on Colorado's education system. She stated that if federal funding levels are not restored, the state is projected to lose over $70 million in education support for the 2025-2026 school year. These funds are essential for supporting students, educators, and communities across all 178 school districts and BOCES in Colorado. Without them, schools may have to make significant cuts to programs and services that families and educators rely on.

As Chair of the National Governors Association, Governor Polis launched Let's Get Ready: Educating All Americans for Success initiative earlier this year. This initiative aims to support governors in driving innovative education policies and improving outcomes for learners at all stages of their education journey. It also focuses on preparing students for success in the workforce.

The decision to withhold funding from Colorado's education system has been met with strong opposition from Governor Polis and Education Commissioner Córdova. They both stress the importance of investing in education and ensuring that every child has access to quality education. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen if the Trump administration will reconsider their decision and restore the much-needed funding for Colorado schools.

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