Federal Freeze on $7.5M Adult Education Funds Stalls Programs Across Oklahoma

More than $7.5 million in federal funds meant to support adult education and literacy programs in Oklahoma remains frozen, leaving thousands of students and hundreds of staff in limbo as the new fiscal year begins.

The funding, which supports 30 providers at 119 locations statewide, is administered through Oklahoma CareerTech and is intended to serve adults seeking high school diplomas, job training, and literacy support. Last year alone, over 12,000 learners benefited from these programs.

“This funding is critical,” said Brent Haken, director of Oklahoma CareerTech. “We’re talking about nearly 300,000 Oklahomans without a high school diploma. These programs provide a second chance at education and workforce readiness.”

The freeze stems from federal concerns first raised during the Trump administration over whether such funds could indirectly support undocumented immigrants. However, Oklahoma officials argue the state has rigorous safeguards to ensure services comply with both federal and state law.

“We’ve gone above and beyond to meet eligibility requirements,” said Max McKnight, CareerTech’s director of workforce training. “The delay is unfortunate because it holds back people who are ready to move forward — into further education, better jobs, and a stronger economy.”

Many of the programs impacted help students transition directly into CareerTech training or the workforce upon completing basic education. But without access to funding, operations have stalled, leaving staff unpaid and students without services.

CareerTech leaders remain optimistic that the hold will soon be lifted but say the ongoing uncertainty is undermining momentum built over years of service.

“We’re ready to deliver,” Haken said. “We just need the green light to move forward.”