Statement From Shavar Jeffries on FY25 Presidential Budget Proposal

While there is much to applaud in the President’s proposed education budget—specifically investments to build a diverse, well-prepared teacher pipeline and increased funding for Title I schools, multilingual learners, and students with disabilities—it is disappointing that Charter Schools Program (CSP) funding has been reduced by $40 million to $400 million. This cut is unjustifiable given that demand for charter schools remains high, with charter enrollment growing by more than 9% between 2019-20 and 2022-23 while district schools experienced a 3.5% enrollment loss during the same period. If the Department of Education truly aims to raise the bar for every learner, we need to come together and support high-quality education for all students, including the 3.7 million children who attend public charter schools.

Rather than reducing vital resources for students who need our support more than ever, Congress should raise funding for the CSP to $500 million, further increase funding for special education, double funding for Title I, and double funding for TEACH grants, as requested. Investing in our children’s education is crucial for our nation’s future, and I look forward to working together with the Administration, Congress, and our partners to ensure that every child has access to the education they deserve.

Shavar Jeffries, KIPP Foundation CEO