Today, U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton (D-Ariz.) released the following statement after the Trump Administration released a portion of frozen federal education funding.
In a partial reversal, the Office of Management and Budget will release 21st Century Community Learning Center funds that had been on hold. These funds provide academic enrichment opportunities such as literacy and other educational services during non-school hours for students and families, and are a major source of funding for organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs.
“I’m glad to see the Trump Administration heed my call and unfreeze federal funding for critical afterschool programs, like the Boys & Girls Clubs,” said Stanton. “But nearly $100 million in funding still remains frozen, putting Arizona school districts in an impossible financial situation right as the school year starts. These are dollars that Congress appropriated on a bipartisan basis, and they must be released immediately.”
“We’re incredibly grateful to Congressman Greg Stanton for his leadership in securing the release of 21st Century Community Learning Center funds. These programs are a lifeline for thousands of Arizona kids and working parents who rely on afterschool programs for academic support, safety, and opportunity. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley remains committed to working with our elected leaders to make sure every child has access to the support and services they need to thrive,” said Marcia Mintz, President & CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley.
Earlier this month, Stanton and Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought demanding they immediately release frozen grant funding to Arizona schools.
Stanton visited the Boys & Girls Club of the Valley’s Harry & Sandy Rosenzweig Branch last week to speak with kids and administrators. He is a BGCAZ alumnus of the Rosenzweig Branch.