Exclusive: 25 States Opt in to Program Allowing Local Schools More Control over Education Spending

Twenty-five U.S. states have joined the Ed-Flex program, which enables local schools greater autonomy in managing federal education funds, according to the U.S. Department of Education. The announcement, made on Friday, marks a significant expansion of the initiative, with half of all states now participating. The program, originally established in 1999 and reauthorized in 2015 under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), allows states to bypass some federal restrictions on how education dollars are allocated, aiming to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enhance local responsiveness. The addition of Arizona, Nevada, and South Carolina brings the total number of participating states to 25. These three states were approved following a review process initiated by the Department of Education, which encouraged states to apply after sending letters last year urging participation. The decision reflects growing bipartisan support for the program, as both Republican- and Democratic-led states have chosen to join. Officials emphasized that the increased participation signals a shift toward empowering local educational leaders to tailor strategies to meet community-specific needs. Kirsten Baesler, assistant secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education, described the milestone as a turning point in American education policy. She noted that innovation in education often emerges from localized decision-making rather than centralized directives. “This movement shows that when state and local leaders are granted regulatory freedom, they can adapt more swiftly and effectively to serve their students,” she stated. Under the Ed-Flex framework, states can request waivers from certain federal rules governing the use of education funds. These waivers typically include provisions such as allowing local educational agencies (LEAs) to carry over up to 15 percent of funds beyond the current fiscal year and adjusting mandatory spending minimums for specific grants. In the 2023-2024 school year alone, Ed-Flex states issued around 575 such waivers, according to the Department of Education. The flexibility has enabled districts to allocate resources more efficiently, particularly in areas such as curriculum development, teacher training, and infrastructure improvements. Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne welcomed the expanded access to Ed-Flex authority, stating that it empowers local districts and charter schools to make informed financial decisions. He argued that local officials possess deeper insights into the unique challenges faced by their communities, enabling them to optimize federal funds for improved student performance. Similarly, Nevada Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Victor Wakefield highlighted that the program aligns with broader state initiatives aimed at streamlining administrative processes. His remarks underscored the importance of focusing resources on instructional quality and student well-being. South Carolina Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that effective education policies should remove barriers while fostering growth. She praised the Department of Education for its trust in her state’s capacity to manage the newfound flexibility responsibly. “This change ensures that we remain focused on what truly matters: supporting students and helping them achieve their potential,” she added. The expansion of the Ed-Flex program continues to gain traction, with ongoing discussions among state education leaders about further enhancements. As more states consider joining, the program's influence is expected to deepen, potentially reshaping the landscape of K–12 education financing across the country.