NYSUT has joined a coalition in a lawsuit against the federal administration for withholding nearly $6 billion in education funding meant for the 2025–2026 school year. This group includes school districts, parents, teachers’ unions, and nonprofit organizations.
Melinda Person, NYSUT President, stated: “This isn’t a delay — it’s a broken promise. From New York’s urban centers to its most remote rural towns, our schools were counting on this funding to serve students who need it most. Districts have already built careful plans to stretch every dollar for maximum impact. To rip billions away now is not just unlawful, it’s reckless. This means canceled programs, crowded classes, fewer staff working directly with students, and fewer opportunities for kids to succeed. We’re taking this fight to court because when promises are broken and laws are ignored, the courts become the necessary path to justice — for our schools and for our students.”
The lawsuit aims to compel the U.S. Department of Education and the White House Office of Management and Budget to release funds crucial for supporting low-income students, English language learners, after-school programs, immigrant students, and teacher training.
Funds appropriated by Congress under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act were required to be distributed by July 1, 2025. However, these funds have been withheld due to a “programmatic review” by the Department to ensure alignment with administration priorities. The plaintiffs claim this action violates several acts including the Administrative Procedure Act and Impoundment Control Act.
The coalition involved includes multiple organizations such as American Federation of Teachers Pennsylvania, Anchorage School District, California Federation of Teachers among others.
