Federal Government Withdraws $42M in Pandemic Funds from Michigan Schools

Michigan school districts are set to lose nearly $42 million in federal pandemic relief funding due to the U.S. Department of Education's abrupt decision to change the reimbursement request deadline from March 28, 2026, to March 28, 2025. This policy shift, announced by Secretary Linda McMahon, affects 27 districts that had already entered contracts based on the expectation of these funds for critical infrastructure improvements such as HVAC systems and windows. State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice criticized the decision, emphasizing that it jeopardizes financial plans and could force districts to cut educational spending. The federal department justified the decision by stating that the funding is no longer needed as the pandemic is over, claiming that states and districts have had sufficient time to meet their obligations. The impact is particularly severe for districts like Flint, which could lose over $15 million. This sudden withdrawal of support has sparked widespread concern among Michigan education officials about the long-term effects on student safety and health.