Federal Funding Freeze Jeopardizes Essential Learning Programs for Children

WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 8, 2025) — Save the Children and its advocacy arm, Save the Children Action Network (SCAN), are deeply concerned about the U.S. Department of Education’s decision to withhold disbursement of critical federal funds that support afterschool and summer programs in communities across the country. In recent guidance to states, the Department signaled that it will withhold certain formula-funded education dollars, including those allocated through the 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, despite bipartisan Congressional approval earlier this year.

These grants are a cornerstone of academic support in thousands of high-need schools. In rural communities where Save the Children operates, they help power afterschool and summer programs that give children a safe place to learn, grow and thrive, offering support in core subjects like reading and math as well as access to STEM, physical activity and the arts.

“This funding has been essential in helping children who are falling behind academically, particularly in rural and low-income communities where fewer opportunities exist outside the school day,” said Betsy Zorio, Vice President of U.S. Programs at Save the Children. “Withholding these funds will have an immediate impact on children and families who rely on summer programs funded with these federal dollars. This will create unnecessary disruptions for schools, families and – most importantly – students who rely on these programs to stay engaged and succeed.”

Research shows that students who participate in high-quality afterschool and summer programs attend school more consistently, complete more homework and make meaningful gains in literacy and math. For many hardworking families, these programs also provide peace of mind that their children are in safe, supportive environments during critical hours of the day.

“Communities have spent months planning these programs and families are counting on them for summer and school-year care,” said Christy Gleason, Executive Director of Save the Children Action Network. “Congress approved these funds with strong bipartisan support. It’s time for the Administration to follow through by providing these funds to the states.”

The decision to withhold federal education funding is happening when nearly 70% of U.S. students cannot read proficiently by the end of third grade, putting them at a significantly higher risk of dropping out of high school.

Save the Children and SCAN urge the Administration to release these education funds, especially 21st Century Community Learning Centers funds, without delay. These grants represent a longstanding national commitment to supporting kids’ learning and development – especially in rural and underserved communities – and every child deserves the opportunity to benefit.