The U.S. Department of Education has announced new investments in several education programs, redirecting funds from initiatives it determined were not serving students and families effectively. The department is using its discretionary grant authority to prioritize charter schools, American history and civics programs, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs).
Following the release of the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress scores, which indicated poor educational performance nationwide, the department will allocate $500 million for charter schools in fiscal year 2025. This is described as the largest investment ever made in the Charter Schools Program.
In addition to support for charter schools, HBCUs and TCCUs will receive a one-time increase in funding: an additional $495 million on top of their expected fiscal year 2025 allocations. This represents a 48.4% increase for HBCUs and a 109.3% increase for TCCUs compared to previous funding levels. Overall, HBCUs are set to receive over $1.34 billion, while TCCUs will get more than $108 million from the department during this period.
Earlier this year, the department invited applications for grants under the American History and Civics Education National Activities – Seminars for America's Semiquincentennial program. More than 100 civil society organizations and higher education institutions responded with applications. The department expects that this new round of funding—over $160 million—will lead to a record number of awards supporting civics education nationwide as part of preparations for America’s 250th anniversary.
U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated: “Today, the Department is making three massive investments – redirecting financial support away from ineffective and discriminatory programs toward those which support student success. We are proud to make the largest investment in the Charter Schools Grants Program in the Department’s history, support American history programs that will inspire young people to be active and informed citizens, and recognize Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ and Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities’ historic contributions to improving education and opportunity in our country.” McMahon added: “The Department has carefully scrutinized our federal grants, ensuring that taxpayers are not funding racially discriminatory programs but those programs which promote merit and excellence in education. The Trump Administration will use every available tool to meaningfully advance educational outcomes and ensure every American has the opportunity to succeed in life.”
