Katie Jenner

The Trump administration's efforts to 'return education to the states' have been described as limited and contradictory, with state leaders noting minimal changes in control. Indiana and Rhode Island education officials highlighted existing state authority and increased federal interference under the administration.

The Trump administration granted Indiana flexibility to consolidate $50 million in federal education grants, reducing compliance costs by $20 million. Indiana's plan, approved by Education Secretary Linda McMahon, allows changes in accountability systems but denied a school choice program proposal. Similar waivers were previously given to Iowa and Louisiana.

Indiana has been granted flexibility by the Trump administration to consolidate $50 million in federal education funds from five streams into one with fewer restrictions, joining Iowa and Louisiana. The waiver aims to reduce compliance costs by $20 million but was denied a proposal to redirect funds to higher-performing schools for a school choice program.

The Trump administration granted Indiana a waiver allowing it to merge five federal education funding streams into a block grant over four years, totaling around $50 million. The waiver provides flexibility but falls short of Indiana's original request and faces criticism over potential accountability concerns.

Chalkbeat Ideas hosts a virtual event on June 11 to discuss the Trump administration's education policies, including efforts to reduce federal oversight and transfer programs to the Department of Labor. Panelists include state education leaders from Rhode Island and Indiana, who will address impacts on schools, federal program cuts, testing, and civil rights enforcement.