In North Carolina alone, districts are expected to lose more than $165 million, leading to the loss of 1,000 teaching jobs throughout the state.
North Carolina has joined a coalition of other states suing the federal government to prevent planned cuts to the nation’s education budget.
According to North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson’s office, the Trump-directed reductions will see schools across the country lose more than $6.8 billion in federal funds.
“For decades, Plaintiff States have relied upon these funds to fulfill the critical role of education their population, including K-12 students,” the lawsuit states. “As Congress intended, the States have used this funding to carry out specific programs that Defendants are required by federal law to support financially, including programs for English learners and children of migratory workers; programs that promote and enhance effective classroom instruction, improve school conditions and the use of technology in the classroom; and programs that establish and expand community learning centers that offer students a broad range of opportunities for academic and extracurricular enrichment.”
In North Carolina alone, districts are expected to lose more than $165 million, leading to the loss of 1,000 teaching jobs throughout the state.
“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,” Jackson said in a press release. “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.”
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein, in a separate statement, emphasized that funding cuts impact more than teaching positions and will, in all likelihood, cause a massive reduction in other services.
“Without these funds, nearly 1,000 teachers will have their jobs taken from them. The money also provides after-school programs, supports children learning English, and helps adults learn how to read. Schools are counting on these funds; without them, they will be left scrambling as kids return to classrooms,” Stein said.
The lawsuit alleges that the cuts will disproportionately affect schools in rural parts of North Carolina, many of which rely on grants to pay teachers’ salaries and cover the costs of assorted services. Some districts are estimated to lose more than $300 per student.
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