Trump administration teacher training grants face Supreme Court scrutiny as officials claim they fund divisive ideologies like DEI, CRT, and anti-racism.
The move comes after the Education Department halted millions of dollars in funding to states, sparking legal challenges from eight Democratic-led states.
Emergency Appeal to the Supreme Court
Acting Solicitor General Sarah Harris argued that a District Court judge’s decision to temporarily restore the grants amounts to judicial micromanagement of government policies. Harris described the appeal as essential to prevent courts from blocking key administrative actions.
“Only this Court can right the ship − and the time to do so is now,” Harris wrote.
The appeal marks the fifth instance where the administration has sought Supreme Court intervention. These actions aim at restructuring federal programs.
State Opposition and Legal Standpoint
California Attorney General Rob Bonta leads the coalition of states opposing the grant termination. He argued that the cancellation would harm underserved communities. California alone stands to lose $148 million in funding for teacher training programs targeted at high-poverty schools and hard-to-fill positions in math and science.
The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals rejected the administration’s attempt to block the grants, with Judge William Kayatta criticizing the lack of a reasoned explanation for the decision.
“Cutting the funding will result in staff layoffs and program disruptions,” Kayatta noted.
Education Department’s Stance
Trump administration teacher training cuts were defended by the Education Department, claiming the programs push divisive ideologies. The department specifically cited DEI training, critical race theory, and anti-racism efforts as reasons for the funding cuts.
What’s Next?
The Supreme Court will soon consider the administration’s request. Approval could significantly reshape teacher training program funding nationwide.
Source: USA Today
