Three school districts stand to lose millions in federal funding after failing to meet the Trump administration’s deadline for implementing bathroom policies that would reverse protections for transgender students.
Specifically, public schools in Chicago, New York, and Fairfax County risk losing about $24 million due to non-compliance with a Department of Education directive that requires students to use bathrooms based on their sex assigned at birth.
On September 16, an official from the Civil Rights Office informed the three districts they needed to make changes by the following Tuesday.
“The department won’t overlook civil rights compliance issues in these areas, which seem to discriminate against students based on race and gender,” stated Julie Hartman, a spokesperson for the department.
“These schools are funded by hardworking American families, and parents deserve quality education rather than what they see as ideologically driven ‘inclusive’ policies. If these districts are ready to jeopardize federal funds to uphold their positions, it indicates a troubling decision on their part,” she added.
Chicago could lose around $5.8 million, while Fairfax County is facing a loss of $3.4 million for the Magnet School Assistance Program, effective October 1. Reports indicate New York City could lose approximately $15 million.
“Our mission and programs not only meet our obligations to students, but we are also complying with the law,” said Elizabeth Burton, the Acting Counsel for Chicago, in response to inquiries from the Associated Press.
Meanwhile, officials in New York City expressed concerns that losing this funding would adversely impact students who are already facing challenges.
“Cuts to this funding affect specialized curriculum and after-school programs, harming all students in underserved communities,” the New York City school district said in a statement.
“If the federal government reduces this funding, it translates to course cancellations and less enrichment, which is something our city simply can’t afford. And it sends a message that students aren’t valued,” they continued.
