Federal Funding Restores After-School Programs Across Fort Worth ISD.

For a minute there, it looked like after-school programs in Fort Worth ISD might be on the chopping block.

Federal funding had been frozen, and the district was facing the possibility of losing $1.7 million that helps keep 70 program sites running. That meant jobs and vital student services, such as mental health support, mentoring, and college preparation, were in limbo.

Thankfully, that freeze has been lifted, at least partially. The U.S. Department of Education has finally released $1.4 billion in after-school funding nationwide, and Fort Worth ISD, along with nearby Crowley and Castleberry, will now receive over $5.6 million in combined funding. That’s a significant win for campuses serving a high percentage of low-income students, who are the primary beneficiaries of the funds.

It’s not all resolved, though. More than $17 million in additional education dollars are still stuck in red tape, leaving districts waiting.

For now, though, families can breathe a little easier. After-school programs are moving forward, and that’s a significant development for kids who need a safe place to go, extra help, or simply more time to grow and learn outside the classroom.

Read Jacob Sanchez’s full story.