States Are Ditching the Feds – See How They’re Funding Schools Without DC

When Washington cuts the checkbook, some states are proving they can still get the job done – without relying on the federal government.

On August 2, NPR reported that Brown University agreed to pay $50 million to workforce development programs in Rhode Island. That money will help make up for federal research funding that disappeared.

Here’s the part that matters: the state worked out a local solution with private partners.

This is the kind of thinking more states need right now.

Government Isn’t the Only Option

For too long, people have been told that only the government can fix education and job training. But that’s just not true.

In fact, there are plenty of other ways to support schools and help people learn the skills they need for good-paying jobs without raising taxes or growing Washington’s reach.

Private partnerships, local businesses, and community groups are stepping up to fill the gap. From churches hosting preschool programs to companies funding job training for future workers, smart solutions are happening outside government walls.

And they’re working.

Nevada’s Model: Smart, Local, and Private

Here in Nevada, Governor Joe Lombardo has been focused on expanding access to pre-K. Instead of asking the federal government for more money (and more red tape), Nevada is exploring other paths.

One idea? Encourage private donors, nonprofits, and even employers to help fund early childhood education.

For example, a large company could sponsor a local preschool program, especially if it helps working parents stay in the workforce. That’s a win-win.

Another smart move is using existing resources better.

Instead of creating new government departments, Nevada is finding ways to stretch current dollars by cutting waste and putting families first.

Other States Are Trying This Too

In places like Florida and Texas, private scholarships are helping low-income families pay for early education or job training.

Trade groups and local businesses are also helping design programs that actually prepare students for real careers, not just classroom theory.

Even in traditionally blue states like Rhode Island, the deal with Brown University shows there’s a growing interest in creative, non-government solutions.

It’s a shift away from the old idea that Washington has to handle everything. And it’s long overdue.

The Power of Philanthropy

Private donors are also playing a big role. Across the country, foundations and charities are putting serious money into education reform.

Groups like the Walton Family Foundation, the Daniels Fund, and even smaller local organizations are helping fund charter schools, early learning centers, and job training programs.

And because they’re not tied up in politics, these groups can move faster, take risks, and focus on what actually works – not what sounds good in a press release.

What About the Critics?

Some critics say depending on private money isn’t reliable. They argue that public education should always be government-funded and government-run.

Those same government systems are often bloated, slow, and one-size-fits-all. By bringing in private partners and local groups, states can offer more choices for families and better results for students.

In Summary

Education doesn’t have to be run out of D.C., and funding it doesn’t have to mean higher taxes or more debt.

With the right mix of private support, local innovation, and common sense, we can build a better system that works for everyone – without waiting for Washington to catch up.