Overview of the Federal Funding Freeze
In mid-2025, the Trump administration withheld approximately $6.8 billion in federal education funds across the country. For Colorado, this means a potential loss of up to $80 million. For the Thompson School District (TSD), the projected impact is a shortfall of $793,000.
District Context
TSD serves nearly 15,000 students across 30 schools, spanning 362 square miles. It is Colorado’s 17th largest school district. Its funding model includes 58% local, 34% state, and just 8% federal contributions—yet that 8% includes critical programs now at risk. The district also faces over $325 million in deferred maintenance.
Programs Affected
Title I-C (Migrant Education): Supports children of migrant agricultural workers with academic, social, and health services.
Title II-A (Teacher Training): Funds recruitment, retention, and professional development. Learn more on TSD’s federal programs page.
Title III-A (English Learners): Provides support for students acquiring English. TSD’s Language Instruction Program may see cuts.
Title IV-A/B (Enrichment): Funds after-school programs and tutoring—especially for low-income students.
Impact on Strategic Goals
These losses undermine the district’s Strive 2025 Strategic Plan, which emphasizes:
Academic growth
Inclusive culture
Talent retention
Responsible stewardship
Community Response Strategies
Strengthen Local Partnerships
Organizations like the Thompson Education Foundation already support thousands of students. Expanding collaborations with Colorado State University, local businesses, and youth organizations can help fill service gaps.
Advocate for State Support
The Colorado Association of School Executives and Governor Polis have called on federal officials to release the funds. Residents can urge legislators to revisit TABOR and support emergency appropriations.
Enhance Community Fundraising
TSD can look to previous bond measures like 5A and 5B and build new campaigns for operational funding and staffing.
Maximize Existing Resources
Through volunteer programs, grant writing, and cost-sharing with nearby districts, TSD can stretch existing budgets.
Expand Family Engagement
Initiatives like the Family Center at Stansberry and multilingual community engagement strategies can ensure all families are informed and involved in solutions.
Pursue Political and Legal Action
TSD can join the growing number of districts supporting legal challenges and asking Congress for urgent action. Local advocacy also matters—residents can contact their representatives and raise public awareness.
Conclusion
The funding freeze jeopardizes services for TSD’s most vulnerable students—but with informed, coordinated action, the community can minimize the harm and protect long-term educational equity. From local partnerships to statehouse advocacy, every effort counts. Together, we can ensure that federal dysfunction doesn’t derail our commitment to students.
