The U.S. Department of Education has unveiled a historic reallocation of funding that will significantly boost charter schools, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities (TCCUs), and civics education programs.
These changes reflect the Trump administration’s priorities, focusing on educational outcomes and school choice.
Major Boost for Charter Schools in 2025
In response to disappointing results from the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, the Department is making its largest-ever investment in charter schools. A total of $500 million will be directed toward the Charter Schools Program in fiscal year 2025.
This move aims to:
- Support educational choice for families
- Expand high-quality charter school access
- Improve student performance through alternative schooling options
This is part of the administration’s broader strategy to give parents more control over where their children learn and to foster competition that raises overall education standards.
Unprecedented Funding for HBCUs and TCCUs
In a major step toward recognizing the unique role of minority-serving institutions, the Department is increasing its 2025 funding for HBCUs and TCCUs by nearly $495 million in additional, one-time support.
Here’s how the funding breaks down:
| Institution Type | FY 2025 Total Funding | Percentage Increase |
|---|---|---|
| HBCUs | Over $1.34 billion | +48.4% |
| TCCUs | Over $108 million | +109.3% |
These funds will help institutions:
- Upgrade facilities and infrastructure
- Invest in faculty and student support programs
- Advance research and innovation
- Expand opportunities for underserved communities
This funding recognizes the longstanding contributions of HBCUs and TCCUs in creating educational equity and supporting economic mobility.
$160 Million for American History and Civics Education
Ahead of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, the Department is dedicating over $160 million to civics and history education programs through the Seminars for America’s Semiquincentennial initiative.
More than 100 organizations and colleges have applied for funding, and this new investment is expected to result in a record number of awards. The goal is to:
- Encourage national pride and civic engagement
- Strengthen understanding of American history
- Prepare young people to become active, informed citizens
This move aligns with the administration’s efforts to restore civic literacy and appreciation for national heritage among students.
Funding Redirected from ‘Ineffective’ Programs
According to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, these investments are being made by repurposing funds from programs deemed “ineffective and discriminatory.”
The Department is using its discretion within existing grant programs to realign resources with the Trump administration’s vision of merit-based, outcome-driven education reform.
McMahon stated:
“We are proud to make the largest investment in the Charter Schools Program in the Department’s history… while ensuring that taxpayers are not funding racially discriminatory programs but those which promote merit and excellence.”
