How Trump’s Threat to School Funding in Maine Could Impact Students
Jonathan Moody, the superintendent of MSAD 54—located about 90 miles north of Portland, Maine—manages a rural school district that confronts significant challenges. His office, nestled in a remodeled farmhouse with a history as a chicken coop, serves as a testimony to the district’s unique charm and struggle.
“I drive 30 minutes to work, and I don’t see a single stoplight,” Moody quips, highlighting the rural essence of his community.
But the reality of rural education in Maine brings heavy burdens, particularly when coupled with high poverty rates. Moody, who himself grew up in nearby schools, is unwaveringly dedicated to enhancing education for his students. Yet, the lack of funding remains a persistent obstacle, making the district’s reliance on federal dollars all the more severe. Currently, 74 staff positions depend on federal grants, which also provide essential resources for free school meals, special education, and mental health services.
“Federal funds are the backbone of our academic intervention system,” Moody asserts, emphasizing their vital role in helping students—especially the most vulnerable—catch up and thrive.
The Risk of Losing Federal Support
Unfortunately, this essential funding faces an uncertain future due to ongoing political conflicts with the Trump administration. The President has threatened to cut federal funding for K-12 education in Maine—totaling hundreds of millions of dollars annually—after Governor Janet Mills declined to comply with an executive order banning transgender athletes from participating in school sports.
In a now-infamous exchange, Trump told Mills, “You’re not going to get any federal funding at all,” to which Mills fought back: “See you in court.” The escalating tensions have led to ongoing litigation that could drag on for months, leaving many in the education sector deeply unsettled.
Rebecca Sibilia, of EdFund, a school finance research nonprofit, exclaims, “This is the Trump administration basically holding funding for our most vulnerable students hostage.” The precedent set by this administration could have long-lasting implications for educational funding across the nation.
The Role of Federal Dollars in Public Education
While most U.S. schools receive funding from state and local sources, a substantial chunk—between 6% and 13%—comes from the federal government. This funding is designed to support students who need extra help, including those from low-income families, English language learners, and students with disabilities.
Sibilia notes that this ostensibly small percentage becomes critically important: “It translates to actual choices like laying off one out of ten teachers or cutting back on educational programs.”
Title I Funding: A Lifeline for Rural Schools
For rural districts like Mill Stream Elementary in Skowhegan, Title I funding is the largest federal grant. With a limited local tax base, these schools are particularly reliant on federal assistance.
“Federal grants are flexible, allowing us to tailor solutions to our students’ unique needs,” Moody explains. Title I funds are utilized to employ trained interventionists and maintain smaller class sizes, directly benefiting students who may otherwise fall behind.
Barbara Welch, a veteran educator with nearly four decades in the district, relies entirely on Title I funding as a coach for other teachers and as a guide for students. Her focus is on early intervention, primarily for students in kindergarten through second grade.
“The sooner we address struggles, the fewer services kids will need later,” Welch asserts. “Our data show we’re effective—our students enter third grade ready to succeed without Title I interventions.”
Beyond the Classroom: Essential Services and Support
Federal funding doesn’t just support academic programs; it also aids in feeding students and addressing their mental health. Approximately two-thirds of the MSAD 54 community grapples with poverty, making food insecurity a pressing issue. The district has long benefited from USDA programs that provide free meals at school, including substantial snacks for after-school programs.
In a stroke of irony, funding for these essential food programs was temporarily frozen due to political maneuvering. Thankfully, the state prevailed in court, restoring these critical funds, yet the precariousness of federal decisions lingers in the air.
“We’re constantly asked by community members, ‘What will happen if this program gets cut?’” Moody shares, reflecting the anxiety shared by many.
The Need for Mental Health Support
Mental health services face similar threats. Families often endure long waitlists for private mental health resources, making school-based services essential. Counselors like Jordan Chighali are often the first line of defense against issues like anxiety and depression in students.
Unfortunately, the Trump administration has recently proposed cuts to mental health grants for schools, threatening to cut funding earlier than expected for many initiatives.
“I was disappointed and devastated for the kids,” Chighali states.
The Importance of Investing in Education
Despite these challenges, Moody remains hopeful. “Investing in education changes lives,” he asserts. “It is essential.”
As Maine schools navigate these turbulent waters, the repercussions of lost federal funding will ripple through not only classrooms but entire communities. The stakes are high, and the need for support is greater than ever. Let’s remember—the future of our students depends on investing in their education and well-being.
For further reading, you can explore more about the impact of federal funding on education in this detailed report or the implications of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.
