Halting federal education funding harms students

The Trump administration’s decision to withhold over $6 billion in federal education funding is not just a political maneuver—it’s a direct threat to the students of the Cedar Rapids Community School District (CRCSD). This unprecedented move puts essential programs like Kids on Course University (KCU) and our English Language Learner (ELL) services in jeopardy, leaving hundreds of local students without the resources they need to thrive.

Kids on Course University (KCU) is a vital summer learning program that serves over 400 elementary students across CRCSD. It provides certified instruction in reading, math, and writing to prevent summer learning loss and close achievement gaps. This program relies heavily on 21st Century Community Learning Center grants—funds that are now being withheld. Without them, Cedar Rapids families may lose access to a program that supports working parents and helps struggling students gain academic ground during the summer months.

CRCSD also serves over 1,500 English Language Learner students from more than 65 countries, speaking over 70 different languages. In fall 2023, the district requested $1.86 million in Modified Allowable Growth funding to cover unmet costs in the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) program—funding gaps that are typically stabilized with federal support. If the freeze continues, ELL students—many of whom already face significant challenges—may not receive the instructional assistance, language services, or cultural support they need to succeed.

This funding freeze threatens more than just two programs. CRCSD’s Board of Education minutes show that Title funding and federal grants support critical services—special education, after-school enrichment, professional development, mental health partnerships, and academic interventions. The district collaborates with community organizations like the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and Iowa State University Extension to provide holistic, well-rounded learning experiences. These partnerships could be jeopardized by the loss of funding.

This is not a drill—this is a direct hit to our classrooms, our kids, and our future. Our students cannot wait while Washington plays politics with their education after the state has done so much damage already.

We must act now. Donate to the Zach Johnson Foundation to help bridge the funding gaps for KCU and contact your elected officials and ask them to demand the U.S. Department of Education release the lawfully designated funds immediately. Tell them Iowa students are not bargaining chips.

Here’s how to reach your representatives: Sen. Chuck Grassley– (202) 224-3744; Sen. Joni Ernst – (202) 224-3254; and Rep. Ashley Hinson (IA-2)– (202) 225-2911

Ask them to protect programs like KCU and ELL services, and to stand up for every student in Cedar Rapids who depends on fair and timely federal education funding.

Rita McCord is a lifelong Cedar Rapidian, a 21 year educator in the Cedar Rapids Community School District and a Kennedy alum.