North Carolina joined 23 other states in a lawsuit demanding that the U.S. Department of Education release funds it withheld from public school districts on July 1. The funds scheduled to be distributed were appropriated by Congress in March as part of a continuing resolution budget passed into law after being signed by the president. As a result, withholding funds from schools now is illegal.
NC Attorney General Jeff Jackson, Superintendent Mo Green, State Board of Education Eric Davis, and Alamance Burlington School Board Chair Sandy Ellington Graves spoke at a press conference announcing the lawsuit. Their remarks highlighted the damage withholding the funds will have on our schools and communities.
“Public schools across North Carolina, especially in rural areas, need this money to keep teachers in the classroom and keep kids safe while they learn. It’s unlawful and unconstitutional for the Department of Education to withhold money that Congress has appropriated. I’m going to court to get this money for our students, our schools, and North Carolina families.”
– Attorney General Jeff Jackson
“The decision to freeze $165 million in federal funding is an unnecessary and irresponsible act against our children. Every student in North Carolina — in every classroom, in every community — benefits from these critical resources. Educating our children should rise above politics. We call on the Executive Branch to act now in the best interest of every student. Their futures cannot wait.” – Eric Davis, North Carolina State Board of Education Chair
Every NC congressional district stands to lose millions if the funds are not released. For example, District 13, represented by Brad Knott, will lose more than $14.4 million. See how much schools in your district will lose HERE. Scroll over the map to select your district.
