Federal fund release relieves Findlay schools

FINDLAY — School districts across Ohio and other states will be receiving millions of dollars in federal funding following the White House's decision to release nearly $7 billion in education funds previously frozen by the Trump administration. The freeze, which delayed disbursement of federal funds expected by July 1, left school districts panicking to adjust budgets and essential services. While $1.3 billion was released back in early July for one of the U.S. Department of Education's grant programs, it was not until July 25 the administration announced it would be releasing the remaining withheld funds. The decision comes after growing pressure from educators and local organizations. According to the Ohio Capital Journal, on July 21, the Honesty for Ohio Education coalition led a letter signed by many pro-public education organizations and hundreds of individuals directed to Attorney General Dave Yost, the U.S. Department of Education and Ohio's congressional delegation expressing "deep concern" over the freeze of federal funds for state public schools. Among the many Ohio schools affected by this freeze was Findlay City Schools (FCS), which stood to lose approximately $3 million in Title funding to help support after-school programming, academic enrichment, English language learner (ELL) instruction and professional development for educators. "We are relieved that federal Title funding has been restored, allowing Findlay City Schools to move forward with critical programs that directly benefit our students and staff," Superintendent Andy Hatton said. The uncertainty from the funding delay created widespread anxiety across the district. If funds had not been released, Hatton said FCS would have faced "the difficult reality" of eliminating essential services. Earlier this year, voters approved a 1% earned income tax levy, helping FCS maintain stability and avoid further cuts. Hatton emphasized that in order to continue high quality public education, stability from the state and federal government is essential for long-term financial planning. "We remain committed to providing a high-quality, equitable education for every student," Hatton said. "We are proud our community stepped up in May of 2025 and we urge continued stability from our state and federal government in school funding to support that mission," he said. Hatton said the recent funding freeze raises concerns for public education in Ohio. "This episode underscores the growing uncertainty that public schools in Ohio are navigating today," Hatton said. "Sudden shifts in funding and policy at the federal and state levels continue to challenge our ability to plan responsibly and serve students consistently."