April 04, 2025 NYSUT statement on ESSER clawbacks Source: NYSUT Media Relations NYSUT President Melinda Person issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Education notifying the State of New York that they are rescinding Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) spending extensions related to the use of unspent COVID relief funds. “The federal government’s sudden decision to yank back critical ESSER funds is nothing short of a betrayal to our students, educators, and school communities. This reckless clawback is not just bad policy—it’s an attack on the progress our schools have fought tooth and nail to make in the wake of a global pandemic. "These are not abstract dollars. This funding is the backbone of programs that address student mental health, boost reading and math skills, and ensure safe, healthy learning environments. "NYSUT will not stand by while Washington plays politics with our children’s futures. We fully support the State Education Department’s intention to pursue legal action and will bring the full weight of our union to demand what our students were promised—and what they deserve.” The extensions had been granted to give districts until March 28, 2026, to fully liquidate all of these funds. The most recent action by the USDE rescinds that extension. This action is estimated to cut approximately $79 million in already allocated funds from school districts across New York State, though the precise impact on individual districts remains uncertain. The New York State Education Department plans to pursue legal action against this "unwarranted clawback," with NYSUT pledging full support for this legal challenge.