The White House has revealed the release of $5.5 billion in educational funding that had been temporarily held back — a move offering critical support to schools nationwide, including migrant preschool initiatives in Idaho.
The money was frozen at the most inopportune moment. A message was issued to programs informing them they would not get funding at the beginning of the fiscal year, July 1. Among those affected was La Adelita, a Migrant Seasonal Head Start program in Caldwell, which was left uncertain just weeks before the school year began.
“Without this funding, we wouldn’t be able to provide the parent training programs we’re currently offering… and we also wouldn’t have employment. Our primary objective is to support families within the community,” said Araseli Lopez, Education Coordinator at La Adelita.
The funding halt also threatened Title III-A initiatives. These programs are designed to assist English learners in developing confidence, connection, and communication abilities from an early age.
“This will assist them so that when they transition to kindergarten, the larger school, they won’t face bullying or social exclusion due to not knowing this language. I know my son is learning the language here. Then he will have more opportunities in life,” said Vanessa Martinez, a parent at La Adelita.
Programs such as La Adelita are tailored for migrant families, most of whom have limited incomes and relocate often to pursue seasonal agricultural jobs. These early childhood centers provide consistency, security, and a solid academic start for kids.
“Some individuals may assume we are merely a daycare, but that’s not the case. We are a Migrant Seasonal Head Start program. We help children develop the fundamental skills required for kindergarten,” stated Lopez.
“There’s no place where our children can be safer, more supported, and where we have greater opportunities,” another teacher remarked. “Education is a fundamental human right. Our children deserve the opportunity for early education so they can be better prepared,” said Martinez.
With the funding now being distributed, teachers and families can feel a little more at ease, but it has raised questions among many families about whether the support for migrant education will remain consistent.
“This program holds significant importance. It is essential for everyone,” stated Martinez.
