Recent federal actions are creating deep uncertainty for afterschool and summer learning programs nationwide, and Kentucky is no exception. The U.S. Department of Education’s October layoffs, coupled with the Administration’s FY 2026 budget proposal to eliminate dedicated afterschool funding, could have far-reaching effects on Kentucky programs, staff, and the families they serve.
Recent National Developments in Brief
On October 10, 2025, the U.S. Department of Education announced significant layoffs, including staff who support the 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) program, which is the only federal funding stream devoted solely to afterschool and summer learning.
While current FY 2025 funds remain available, the President’s FY 2026 budget for the U.S. Department of Education would zero out 21st CCLC and consolidate other K–12 programs. These changes, combined with DOE staff reductions, threaten the oversight, evaluation, and coordination that help states and local programs deliver high-quality, evidence-based services.
If enacted, the proposal could disrupt programs serving millions of students nationwide—students who rely on afterschool and summer learning to stay engaged, supported, and safe.
Why This Matters for Kentucky
Kentucky receives nearly $20 million annually in 21st CCLC funds, supporting nearly 200 local programs that serve tens of thousands of children and youth. These grants often form the backbone of afterschool and summer programming in rural and high-poverty communities.
Unlike many states, Kentucky has no dedicated state funding for afterschool or summer learning. Federal dollars and local fundraising efforts are the only lifelines keeping many programs running and accessible to low-income families. Without those funds, Kentucky’s afterschool and summer learning landscape could be among the hardest hit in the nation. Learn more about the impacts to Kentucky of eliminating federal 21st CCLC funding.
- Funding at risk: Even with FY 2025 grants intact, the future beyond next year is uncertain. Many programs could face cuts to staffing, student slots, and enrichment opportunities—or close entirely—if federal funding is not renewed.
- Reduced oversight and support: With fewer federal staff to provide guidance and accountability, state agencies and local providers will face increased burden managing training, evaluation, and compliance without additional resources.
- Threats to access: Families in lower-income and rural areas rely heavily on subsidized afterschool and summer learning opportunities. Losing these programs would limit access to safe, engaging, and affordable learning environments for thousands of families and young people across Kentucky.
- Compounding local pressures: Rising costs for transportation, staffing, and materials already strain program budgets. Federal instability could force providers to scale back at a time when students need extra academic and social support the most.
What Kentucky Afterschool Advocates Can Do
While the outlook is uncertain, Kentucky’s education and community partners can take action now to protect out-of-school time programs.
1. Share your story. Tell community leaders, local decision-makers, and members of Congress how afterschool and summer programs benefit students and families in your area. Personal stories help illustrate the real-world impact of these opportunities.
2. Raise awareness. Use your networks—whether through social media, newsletters, or local events—to spread the word about the importance of continued support for afterschool and summer learning. Highlight how these programs help students succeed academically and socially while supporting working parents. Join KYOSA and 8,000 programs across the country October 23, 2025 to celebrate Lights On Afterschool 2025— the only nationwide celebration of afterschool and summer learning programs! It’s not too late to plan and register a Lights On event!
3. Stay informed. Visit our homepage to sign up for KYOSA updates to ensure you receive timely information about federal and state developments that could affect Kentucky’s afterschool field. KYOSA regularly shares alerts, data, and tools to help programs adapt and plan ahead.
4. Engage locally. Encourage your city, county, school district, or community foundation to recognize and invest in afterschool and summer learning opportunities that strengthen your community. Local partnerships can help sustain programs during challenging times and ensure that children continue to have safe, supportive places to learn and grow.
5. Join a Changemakers workshop. KYOSA’s Kentucky Afterschool Changemakers workshops bring together educators, partners, and advocates to strengthen local engagement and community voice around afterschool and summer learning. The next Changemakers workshop will be held in Bowling Green on October 21. Learn more and register here.
KYOSA’s Role
KYOSA will continue to monitor federal developments and to equip Kentucky’s programs with the tools they need to respond and adapt.
Afterschool and summer learning are not luxuries. They are essential supports for academic growth, workforce readiness, and community wellbeing. Yet without federal or state investment, Kentucky’s programs are standing on fragile ground.
Together, we can ensure that every child in Kentucky has access to safe, high-quality learning opportunities beyond the school day, because Kentucky’s kids and families can’t afford to lose afterschool and summer learning programs.