Congress keeps 2026 K-12 funding flat, but uncertainty over federal role persists

Congress last month approved the 2026 federal budget with level, year-over-year funding for virtually every K-12 program, setting a steady baseline for the coming school year. Districts can expect similar allocations from Title I, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and other major programs, limiting the likelihood of surprises in the near term.

The budget’s passage, however, does not resolve the broader uncertainty that has marked the past year of federal education policy. President Donald Trump has not abandoned his pledge to scale back the federal role in education, and schools across the country are still contending with the fallout from surprise federal grant cancellations.

For now, the flat funding means district leaders can plan around stable federal support heading into next year. But with the administration’s stated aim of reducing Washington’s footprint in schools and recent disruptions fresh in mind, education officials remain cautious about what comes next beyond this budget cycle.