Millions in Federal Education Funds Finally Released Just In Time for Arizona Students to Go Back To School
Last week, the U.S. Department of Education announced it will release the remaining, previously withheld, $5 billion in federal education funding for the 2025–26 school year. This long-awaited decision follows weeks of delays that left schools in limbo and threatened to derail critical programs that support Arizona students and educators.
These federal education funds are essential to learners across Arizona. Investments in programs like English language learning, migrant education, and teacher professional development directly influence how well students are prepared for the future. The funds ensure that schools can offer robust, well-supported programs and instruction, particularly in underserved communities so that students gain critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
This is especially important in Arizona, where industries like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and technology are growing rapidly and require a skilled, adaptable workforce. By ensuring these federal dollars are available to educators, we can help more students graduate ready to succeed in education and training after high school, strengthening Arizona’s talent pipeline and positioning our state for long-term economic growth.
This is a major advocacy win and a clear example of what’s possible when we raise our voices together. Thanks to the tireless efforts of education leaders, school officials, and advocates from across the country, including many Arizonans, these essential funds are finally being released. Education Forward Arizona is proud to have been part of this nationwide effort to ensure students aren’t shortchanged.
But the work is far from over.
With some students already heading back to the classroom, Arizona school leaders face the monumental task of allocating these funds quickly and effectively. Schools need expectations that they can count on, as well as predictable investments so that they can stay focused on what matters most: preparing students for success.
At Education Forward Arizona, we believe there’s everything to gain when we invest in education at every level. The release of these federal education funds is a critical step forward, but it must be matched by thoughtful, student-centered action to ensure that every Arizona student is prepared for success this year and beyond.