Today, Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced a lawsuit to protect $165 million in funding for North Carolina public schools and nearly 1,000 educator jobs. The legal action involves 24 other states and aims to prevent the federal government from withholding funds that Congress has already approved. Without these funds, North Carolina’s schools face losing significant financial support, impacting teacher salaries and various educational programs.
“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,” said Attorney General Jeff Jackson. “It’s unlawful and unconstitutional for the Department of Education to withhold money that Congress has appropriated.”
Governor Josh Stein emphasized the importance of these funds for maintaining teaching positions and supporting educational programs such as after-school activities and English learning. He expressed gratitude towards Attorney General Jackson for initiating legal action.
North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Maurice (Mo) Green supported the lawsuit, highlighting the challenges posed by the timing of the funding freeze. He stressed that resolving this issue quickly is essential to ensuring students receive necessary support.
The federal education grant funding at stake supports various aspects of public school budgets in North Carolina. The unexpected pause by the Department of Education on June 30 affects ongoing preparations for summer programs and hiring for the upcoming school year.
Rural districts are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on these grants. Some districts could lose over $300 per student, with nine out of ten most affected districts located in rural areas. Additionally, counties hit by Hurricane Helene are facing an $18 million cut.
The loss of nearly 1,000 educator jobs could exacerbate existing teacher shortages in North Carolina. Recent data shows a significant number of teachers have left the profession recently.
Attorney General Jeff Jackson’s lawsuit is joined by attorneys general from several states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan Minnesota Nevada New Jersey New Mexico New York Oregon Rhode Island Vermont Washington Wisconsin along with governors from Pennsylvania Kentucky
Eric Davis Chair State Board Education described decision freeze funding unnecessary irresponsible act against children every student benefits critical resources Educating children should rise above politics Executive Branch urged act best interest every student futures cannot wait
Sandy Ellington Graves Alamance Burlington School Board Chair noted impact professional development multilingual learners academic enrichment services district withholding funds direct threat ability provide resources support students deserve
Caldwell County Schools Superintendent Don Phipps discussed timing announcement impounded funds difficulty starting school year local funding limited negative impact potential loss delay evident
