The Trump administration has proposed either drastically cutting funding for or completely eliminating the U.S. Department of Education. The department oversees billions of dollars in funding for K-12 education, particularly programs supporting disadvantaged students, special education, and English learners. If Trump’s plan moves forward, California and Los Angeles schools could lose critical funding that helps thousands of students.
Currently, California receives around 10-20% of its total school funding from the federal government, including:
- Title I Funding for Low-Income Students – $2.4 billion annually
- Special Education (IDEA) Funding – $1.5 billion annually
- State Testing & Assessments – $27 million annually
- English Learner & Teacher Support Programs – Funded through various Title grants
If the Department of Education is cut or eliminated, these funds could disappear, forcing California and local districts to find new ways to cover the loss.
K-12 schools in LAUSD (Los Angeles Unified School District) and across California get money from three main sources:
- State Government (55-60%) – The largest funding source, primarily from state income taxes, sales taxes, and Proposition 98 (which guarantees a minimum amount of state funding for schools).
- Local Government (30%) – Property taxes and local funding initiatives help support school districts. Wealthier areas tend to generate more revenue, creating disparities between districts.
- Federal Government (10-20%) – Funds from the U.S. Department of Education support low-income students, special education, English learners, and school improvement programs.
If federal funding is removed, the state and local governments will need to make up the difference—or cut programs.
Neither Los Angeles nor California has a clear plan, that we know of, to fully replace federal funding if the Department of Education is defunded. However, there are some potential mitigation strategies:
- State-Level Adjustments
- California could increase state education funding through tax increases or budget reallocation.
- Proposition 98 ensures schools get a minimum share of state funds, but it may not cover all lost federal money.
- Local-Level Adjustments (LAUSD)
- LAUSD could increase local property taxes or introduce school bonds to raise revenue.
- Potential staff and program cuts could happen if alternative funding isn’t secured.
- Legal Challenges & Political Opposition
- California’s leadership has strongly opposed Trump’s education cuts in the past. If funding is cut, lawsuits and legal battles could delay or block the changes.
If Trump’s plan goes through, the following groups will face the most severe consequences:
- Low-Income Students – Schools that rely on Title I funding will struggle to provide tutoring, after-school programs, and academic support.
- Students with Disabilities – Special education programs may face cuts, leading to larger class sizes and reduced services.
- English Learners – Federal funds that support bilingual education and teacher training could disappear.
- Teachers & School Staff – Budget shortfalls could lead to job losses, increased class sizes, and fewer support staff.
The situation is serious but not yet finalized. Cutting the Department of Education requires congressional approval, and strong opposition exists. However, if major cuts do happen, schools will struggle unless California and local districts step in with alternative funding.
How Can the Community Prepare?
- Stay Informed & Speak Out – Parents, teachers, and community leaders should attend school board meetings and advocate for education funding.
- Support Local School Initiatives – If LAUSD proposes new funding measures (such as bonds or taxes), community backing will be crucial.
- Encourage State Action – California lawmakers may need to adjust the state budget to compensate for lost federal funds.
- Look for Alternative Resources – Nonprofits and community organizations may provide grants and support if public funding is cut.
Trump’s proposed changes to the Department of Education could have a major impact on Los Angeles schools, especially for low-income and special-needs students. While California may try to mitigate the damage, funding gaps could still harm classrooms, teachers, and students. The community must stay engaged, advocate for funding, and prepare for potential changes.
