In 2024, 71% of the $200 billion education budget went to college student aid, while 25% supported K12 schools, including low-income districts and special education, according to global media nonprofit Poynter.

For nearly 60 years, the TRIO programs have been a cornerstone of educational opportunity in the United States, expanding access to higher education for over six million Americans.

Critics of the order are skeptical that whatever remains of the Department of Education — particularly as its workforce has already been reduced by half — will be able to carry out the administrative work necessary to keep funds flowing.

While the Trump administration overhauls the education system, members of Congress are more vulnerable to influence than we think, said policy leaders at ACE.