Parent Notices
Friday, Oct.31, 2025
Dear CCSD Families,
There have been ongoing news reports related to federal funding. This message is to provide clarity regarding the impact of changes at the federal level of government on our daily operations as a school district. First, you can be assured that there is no impact on our current school district operations, and all current programs and services for students and families are continuing as usual. We know that the national news reports can cause uncertainty, but please be assured that CCSD has staff members dedicated to reviewing federal changes, evaluating the impact, and if something would have a local effect -- we would communicate directly to our staff and families. In the meantime, we are committed to ensuring our students continue to receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed. Additional insights are provided below:
General Overview
• Our current federal funding was authorized last year and is therefore in place for this school year.
• Federal funding makes up less than 5% of CCSD’s total operating budget. Our federally funded programs and day-to-day operations are stable.
Areas We’re Watching
While there has been no impact on our school district operations, we’re monitoring these areas and are prepared to keep you informed if any federal changes were to result in something locally being impacted.
Special Education
The U.S. Department of Education has been directed to reduce staff at the federal level. This includes a reduction in staff in the federal office of special education. However, this does not impact any current staffing or services within CCSD.
School Nutrition Programs
• No funding changes are expected for our School Nutrition Program.
• If this changes, we are prepared to keep our breakfast and lunch service intact.
• While other federal programs like SNAP have been affected, CCSD will continue school breakfast and lunch services
• If your family is in need of additional support during this time, visit https://findhelp.org/ to connect with local community services and resources. If your household income has been affected by the federal government shutdown, you may qualify for free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch. Please submit an application here: https://linqconnect.com/public/meal-application/new You can also reach out to your school’s social worker or counseling department for help or guidance.
Head Start School-Based Preschool Centers
No funding changes are expected for our Head Start School-Based Preschool Centers.
Federal Grants
These programs continue to operate as usual, and there are no anticipated changes at this time. These grants include support for Title 1 Schools, support for English Learners, and special education funding.
We will continue to closely monitor the proposed changes and carefully assess their impact on our school district. Our focus remains on student learning. We are committed to transparent communication, proactive planning, and ensuring that every student continues to learn, grow, and thrive -- no matter what changes come our way. Together, we will maintain a strong, stable learning environment where our students and community can succeed.
Thank you,
Mary Elizabeth Davis, Superintendent of Schools
Frequently Asked Questions – Federal Funding and Programs
Will students stop receiving free and reduced lunch if the federal government shutdown continues?
No. There has been no interruption in federal funding for school meals, and we do not anticipate any changes to our school meal program.
Are the School-Based Head Start Preschool centers closing on November 1st if SNAP benefits are not in effect?
No. Our Head start preschool programs are located within our schools and are funded from May 1, 2025 – May 1, 2026, and we do not anticipate any changes to our services. Head Start preschools not associated with a school may have interruptions to services.
Will the number of local special education staff numbers remain the same, even though the U.S. Department of Education reduced their special education staff?
Yes. Our board-adopted budget for the 2025-2026 school year ensures that we will sustain the funding for staff members and services allocated for special education.
Will there be changes in staffing or services at Title I schools in CCSD?
No. Our current school year funding was authorized last year and is in place to maintain the services at Title 1 Schools.
What resources are available if a family needs assistance in Cherokee County?
If your family is in need of additional support, visit https://findhelp.org/ to connect with local community resources.
If your household income has been affected by the federal government shutdown, you may qualify for free or reduced-cost breakfast and lunch. Please submit an application here: https://linqconnect.com/public/meal-application/new
Please reach out to your school social worker or counseling department for more information.