The U.S. Department of Education has announced new grant investments aimed at improving educational outcomes; with a special emphasis on Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Colleges & Universities (TCCUs), charter schools, and civics education.
“Today, the Department is making three massive investments – redirecting financial support away from ineffective and discriminatory programs toward those which support student success. We are proud to make the largest investment in the Charter Schools Grants Program in the Department’s history, support American history programs that will inspire young people to be active and informed citizens, and recognize Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ and Tribally Controlled Colleges and Universities’ historic contributions to improving education and opportunity in our country,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “The Department has carefully scrutinized our federal grants, ensuring that taxpayers are not funding racially discriminatory programs but those programs which promote merit and excellence in education. The Trump Administration will use every available tool to meaningfully advance educational outcomes and ensure every American has the opportunity to succeed in life.”
HBCUs & TCCUs
HBCUs and TCCUs will receive a one-time increase of an additional $495 million on top of the anticipated FY 2025 investment, compared to what had been anticipated for fiscal year 2025:
- Funding for HBCUs is being increased by 48.4%, bringing their total to more than $1.34 billion.
- Funding for TCCUs is being increased by 109.3%, with the total exceeding $108 million.
Charter Schools
In response to disappointing results on the 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, the Department is allocating $500 million in fiscal year 2025 for charter schools.
This is the largest investment ever in the Charter Schools Program. The goal is to expand educational choice and support charter schools as part of a strategy to raise overall student achievement.
Civics & American History Education
The Department will invest over $160 million in American history and civics grants. This investment is tied in part to the upcoming 250th anniversary of America’s founding, and reflects a priority to get young people engaged with civic knowledge and responsibilities.
Earlier this year a notice was issued inviting applications for the American History and Civics Education National Activities – Seminars for America’s Semiquincentennial program. Over 100 institutions and civil society organizations applied.
The Department expects to award a record number of grants under this program.