The Missouri Association of School Administrators (MASA) has applauded the recent decision by Congress and the U.S. Department of Education to release the frozen federal funds for the 2025 fiscal year (FY25).
This decision is a significant step toward restoring crucial support for K-12 public schools across the nation, ensuring that districts can continue to provide vital services for students.
The Role of Advocacy in Securing Funding
The release of the frozen funds follows direct advocacy efforts from education leaders throughout Missouri and across the country.
Earlier this month, a delegation of MASA members, along with the Missouri Association of School Business Officials (MOASBO), traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the AASA Legislative Advocacy Conference.
There, they met with congressional offices to stress the urgent need for the release of these critical funds, contributing to a significant shift in the conversation on Capitol Hill.
Statements from MASA Leadership
MASA Executive Director, Dr. Mark Penny, celebrated the outcome, calling it a major victory for public education. He emphasized that this development was a win for both students and educators in Missouri.
“We are grateful to AASA, our national partners, and especially to the Missouri school leaders who made their voices heard on Capitol Hill.
Their advocacy made a real and measurable impact,” Penny said. His statement underscores the importance of collective action in securing support for education.
The Impact of Advocacy on Federal Decisions
MASA Legislative Director, Scott Kimble, also highlighted the critical role of local advocacy in shaping federal decisions. He noted, “Missouri superintendents and school business officials met directly with congressional offices to communicate what was at stake.
Their stories helped change the narrative in Washington.” This demonstrates the power of local leaders advocating for the needs of their districts and students, ultimately influencing national policy.
Importance of Federal Title Funding
Federal Title funding is essential for supporting a wide range of educational services, including student services, professional development for educators, afterschool programs, and school safety initiatives.
The freeze on these funds had raised concerns about delays in their disbursement, potentially impacting districts that had already budgeted these resources.
With the funds now released, districts can proceed with their plans to address the educational needs of their communities without further disruption.
Continued Advocacy for Full Fund Release
MASA, in partnership with the American Association of School Administrators (AASA), is calling for continued vigilance to ensure the remaining FY25 federal education funds are fully released without delay.
MASA encourages its members to remain engaged in the advocacy process, stay informed about policy developments, and maintain strong relationships with elected officials to support future educational funding efforts.
The Power of Educator Advocacy
Reflecting on the outcome, Dr. Mark Penny concluded, “This outcome reinforces a simple truth: when educators show up, decisions shift. Advocacy works.” The release of the frozen funds stands as a testament to the impact of sustained advocacy by educators, school leaders, and education organizations.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of staying proactive in shaping educational policy and securing the necessary resources for schools to thrive.
The release of the FY25 federal education funds marks a crucial moment for Missouri’s public schools. Thanks to the advocacy efforts of MASA, MOASBO, and other education leaders, critical funding has been restored, ensuring that K-12 schools can continue providing essential services.
The situation highlights the ongoing need for local advocacy to influence national decisions and support public education.
