Federal Updates

On June 16, the U.S. Department of Education announced two new interagency agreements that would move key education offices and functions outside of ED.

AESA has endorsed the Beginning Educator Mentorship and Retention Act, introduced by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-CT). The bill would help states and school districts expand mentorship programs for new teachers and school leaders, strengthening support and improving educator retention.

The U.S. Department of Treasury held an event where they previewed forthcoming Treasury and IRS guidance for the implementation of the new federal scholarship tax credit program created in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Of note, they said not to expect the proposed regulations before September. Given an expected 30–45 day comment period followed by OMB review, final regulations may not be issued until December.

On June 5, the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies advanced its Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 funding proposal. This funding would be available for districts in the 27-28 school year.

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has proposed new revisions to the Uniform Grants Guidance, which dictates the terms under which federal awards must be managed, as well as how and when they can be granted and rescinded. These changes will impact LEAs as well as many other recipients of federal funding.

The latest data indicates that about 20,000 educators across the country have work authorization through the DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) program.

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a proposed rule to eliminate requirements for increased wages and benefits for Head Start staff. These requirements were established in a 2024 regulation under the Biden Administration but did not go into effect until 2028 or later.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a new advisory on children’s screen use. The HHS report is technically an advisory that makes recommendations, but stops short of having legal impact.

The U.S. Department of Education (ED) issued two new “Dear Colleague” letters emphasizing existing funding flexibility in Title V of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).