We are writing to express our deep concern about the potential changes related to education being discussed at the federal level, and proposed cuts to the federal budget that could significantly reduce education funding. Such changes would be devastating to students and schools across Kentucky, especially in rural districts like some in Congressional District 6. Our state depends on federal funding for a host of critical services, and reducing education funding could cause sweeping harm to Kentucky’s kids.

Federal funding plays an essential role in Kentucky’s public schools, comprising one in five dollars of district budgets statewide in 2023. In Congressional District 6, these funds currently total $312,710,210 directly supporting the education and well-being of our students.

More specifically, this funding supports:

-->School Meals: The National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program, funded through the U. S. Department of Agriculture, reimburse schools for a portion of meal costs with higher reimbursements for low-income kids provided $68,173,890 in our Congressional District last year, financing meals for Kentucky kids and allowing free meals in 89% of Kentucky schools.

--> Title I Funds for Low-Income Students: Title I funding in our Congressional District amounts to $38,378,837 , helping pay for teachers, afterschool programs, mentoring, and other critical student services.

-->IDEA Funding for Special Education: Students with disabilities rely on federal support to fund special education teachers, assistive equipment, therapy services, and specialized transportation. These resources are indispensable for ensuring every child receives a quality education.

--> Title II Funds for Teacher Training: Our Congressional District received funds for professional development and educator training, improving teacher effectiveness and student outcomes.

--> Title IV Funds for Student Support and Enrichment: Programs including art, music, career and technical education, mental health services, and anti-bullying initiatives, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education in a safe learning environment.

In total, federal grants from the Department of Education contribute $80,422,018 to our Congressional District, supporting the equivalent of approximately 674 teachers, counselors, and other school employees. These cuts would put at risk not only the quality of education our children receive but also the jobs of those who dedicate themselves to student success.

Because federal funding is particularly targeted to students with the greatest needs, it is disproportionately vital in our higher-poverty and rural districts. Reducing or eliminating these funds would harm our most vulnerable students and make it even harder for our schools to provide the resources and support necessary for academic success.

We urge you to publicly oppose any efforts that could weaken Kentucky’s public schools or cut or threaten critical funding. We urge you to protect federal education funding in the upcoming budget. Our students, teachers, and communities depend on it.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Feel free to reach out to any of us at any time via the emails provided. We look forward to your response and to working together to support our schools and ensure every child in Kentucky has access to a high-quality education.