K-12 Federal Policy Primer and Discussion Guide
A guide to help district leaders navigate the 2025 presidential transition and related federal changes
The second Trump administration has introduced a sweeping policy agenda with significant implications for K-12 education. District leaders must navigate these policy directives while considering consequences for district funding, staffing, community support, and—most importantly—student success. Successful navigation of policy changes will require superintendents to engage constituents in informed, efficient, and productive discussion on “what’s changed,” the implications for their schools, and how their district will respond.
Download our policy primer for help unpacking the following topics:
- Efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion in education: Key takeaways from the Executive Order, Dear Colleague Letter
- Changes in gender recognition and protections: How recent orders will change transgender students’ experiences at school
- Changes in immigration enforcement practices: How recent orders and legislation may change immigrants’ experiences at school
- Anticipated changes in federal funding and support for K-12 education: How changes in funding may impact programs and data available to schools
Strategic questions every district team should be discussing right now
As you review this policy primer and consider the implications of recent changes on K-12 schools, we suggest engaging your cabinet and legal counsel with the following discussion questions to inform your district’s next steps. Use the Flashpoints Communication Playbook to share next steps with your community.
- Have we determined when and why we will change district practices in response to federal directives?
- How will we educate our community on changes in state and federal policy and the implications for our schools?
- Within our district’s legal and societal context, what policies and practices will we deploy to support educational success for all students (including those affected by the executive orders)?
- In anticipation of potential reductions in federal funding, what alternative sources of revenue might we pursue to support necessary staffing and resources?
Want more guidance on how to prepare for what’s next? To learn about EAB’s scenario planning workshop, contact your Dedicated Advisor or email [email protected].
More Resources
Flashpoints Communications Playbook
Teacher Morale Resource Center for K-12 Districts
