WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education has issued new guidance for states to utilize federal funds under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). This initiative is aimed at turning around failing schools and expanding education choice for students, particularly in low-performing schools.
The guidance centers on schools identified for support and improvement under categories such as Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI), Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI), and Additional Targeted Support and Improvement (ATSI). States are now encouraged to direct federal formula funds strategically to activities that improve school outcomes while giving students enhanced educational options.
“It’s a top priority for the Trump Department of Education to help turn around underperforming schools and improve student outcomes, while also giving students in those underperforming schools better options,” said Hayley Sanon, Acting Assistant Secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. “Every year that a child spends in school is precious and cannot be wasted. Students deserve a choice that best meets their unique needs while leaders undertake the important work of turning schools around. We hope that every state will lean on the guidance issued today to support school improvement activities and help more students reach their full potential.”
Under ESEA Section 1003(a), states are required to reserve seven percent of their Title I, Part A allocation to support school improvement activities in identified schools. These funds can be allocated through a competitive grant process, empowering states to target strategies that are most effective for their communities. Notably, states may prioritize districts that both improve underperforming schools and provide students a school choice option.
State leaders praised the Department’s efforts. Dr. Cade Brumley, Louisiana Superintendent of Education, recognized the benefits of expanding educational options, stating, “This welcomed step by the Trump Administration will place more students in quality schools and further return critical decision-making to the states.”
Similarly, Dr. Katie Jenner, Indiana Secretary of Education, highlighted her state’s strategic approach in utilizing federal funds, saying, “The additional guidance shared today by the U.S. Department of Education further empowers us to double down on investments in the knowledge, skills, and experiences that Hoosier students and parents value most, and ultimately, ensure more Indiana families have access to high-quality educational options for their child.”
This initiative complements prior efforts under the Trump Administration’s Executive Order on Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families. By leveraging federal resources, the Department aims to accelerate the transformation of low-performing schools while giving parents and students greater educational choices.
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