Magaziner’s Statement on Education Funding Restored for Rhode Island Schools
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02) released the following statement after reports that the Trump Administration will release school funding it has withheld from K-12 schools:
“I’m pleased that, following public pressure, the Trump Administration will release the funding it is illegally withholding from K-12 schools in Rhode Island and across the country.
Just two weeks ago, I stood with education leaders in Providence to highlight the real impact these cuts were having in the Ocean State. I believe the advocacy of students, teachers, and local leaders helped reverse this harmful decision.”
Earlier this month, the Trump Administration abruptly announced it would withhold nearly $7 billion in federal education funding that schools expected to receive on July 1.
The unprecedented decision stripped $29.3 million from Rhode Island schools, 17 percent of the state’s total K-12 federal education funding:
- $10.8 million for professional development programs for teachers
- $6.7 million for student support and academic enrichment
- $6.5 million for after-school and summer programs
- $3 million for English language acquisition programs
- $2.4 million for adult education
In response, Rep. Magaziner joined Rhode Island Commissioner of Education Angélica Infante-Green and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley to demand the immediate release of the funds.
The Trump Administration’s reversal follows strong advocacy from leaders at every level of government, including a lawsuit filed by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha.