Submitted The Salina Fire Department contained a residential structure fire on Tuesday afternoon. At approximately 4:10 PM, the Salina Fire Department was dispatched to 709 Carriage Ct following reports of a fire in the garage, with potential occupants still inside the residence.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a working fire in the attached garage of 709 Carriage Ct. with&nbsp;flames spreading&nbsp;to the neighboring garage at 707 Carriage Ct. The immediate priorities focused on&nbsp;ensuring all occupants were safely out of the residence, combined with fire suppression efforts.&nbsp;

Fire crews had the fire&nbsp;contained and&nbsp;under control within 10 minutes of arrival, preventing any significant damage to the main living areas of&nbsp;either&nbsp;residence. There were&nbsp;no injuries&nbsp;reported and after thorough investigation the cause of the fire was determined to be an overloaded electrical circuit in the garage.&nbsp;

The Salina Police Department assisted at the scene with traffic and crowd control, and Kansas Gas and&nbsp;Evergy&nbsp;were both requested to secure the utilities. &nbsp;

SFD: Quick response contains garage fire on Carriage Court in Salina

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📨 Sign up today for Salina Post's Noon News Update!

Looking for a new podcast to keep you informed and connected within your local community? Look no further than Eagle Media's latest podcast, "King in the Community."&nbsp;

Join Eagle Media Salina News Director Nate King as he talks with local and regional government officials, first responders, non-profit leaders and unique individuals with fascinating stories from north central Kansas and beyond. Learn about how organizations in your neighborhood leverage their partnerships to create a more interconnected community.

Available on all your favorite platforms, including&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/king-in-the-community/id1687185014">Apple podcasts,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/">Podbean</a>,<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZeCj4TK3kaOZEvgQaDlio">&nbsp;Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c78f2e2e-c714-4aaf-ad4c-4864a4038889">Amazon Audible</a>, TuneIn + Alexa,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/king-in-the-community-5324914">Podchaser,</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.boomplaymusic.com/podcasts/62430">Boomplay</a>.&nbsp;

No matter what streaming service you use, we've got you covered with engaging discussions and insightful interviews that will help you understand the issues that matter most to you.&nbsp; So why wait? Tune in to the "King in the Community" podcast today and discover a new way to stay connected.

For a full list of episodes<a href="https://kinginthecommunity.podbean.com/page/2/">&nbsp;click here</a>. Thanks for listening!

🎙The latest from 'King in the Community' with Nate King

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our news tip email address. Have a breaking news story, a community event, or a feel-good story that deserves to be shared? 

Submit your news tips via email to <a href="http://newstips@salinapost.com">newstips@salinapost.com</a>

Whether you're a Salina local, a native Kansan, or have moved out of state, we want to hear from you. Your contributions help us keep our community informed and engaged. 

So, if you have a story to tell or a photo of breaking news we should know about, send it to newstips@salinapost.com.

Salina Post news tip email address

Salina Post is thrilled to announce an exciting update - we are now accepting letters to the editor from our readers. We believe that our community's voices deserve to be heard, and providing a platform for open dialogue and constructive discussions is essential to a strong free press.&nbsp;

With the new letters to the editor offering, we aim to create a space where readers can express their thoughts, concerns, and ideas on a wide range of local topics that impact their daily lives.&nbsp;

Submitting a letter to the editor is simple. Just email your letter to <a href="mailto:admin@salinapost.com">admin@salinapost.com</a>

Ensure that your letter is concise and respectful. We value thoughtful and constructive discussions, so please make sure to present your arguments in a clear and coherent manner.

While we appreciate and encourage diverse perspectives, we also have certain guidelines in place. Letters should be free from hate speech, name-calling or any form of discrimination. We believe in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment for all readers.

Our editorial team will review all submissions and select letters that align with our guidelines and contribute positively to the conversation. We may edit letters for clarity, grammar, and length, but we will strive to maintain the essence of your message.

We are excited about this new opportunity to amplify your voice and encourage you to take advantage of this platform.

So, whether you have a burning issue or an important message to share, we invite you to submit a letter to the editor. Let's come together, learn from each other, and build a stronger community through the power of words.

All letters must include the author's name. No anonymous letters to the editor will be published, but if you have a news tip or an issue you would like us to know about still reach out via email at newstips@salinapost.com

<a href="https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/advocacy/direct-action/letters-to-editor/main">Information Courtesy University of Kansas Community Toolbox</a>

You feel strongly about an issue, and you want to let people know what you think. You believe you can even influence people to take some action if you speak your mind. But, you want to reach an audience larger than just your friends or your group membership. Letters to the editor can be an effective way to get the word out.

A letter to the editor is a written way of talking to a newspaper, magazine, or other regularly printed publication. Letters to the editor are generally found in the first section of the newspaper, or towards the beginning of a magazine, or in the editorial page. They can take a position for or against an issue, or simply inform, or both. They can convince readers by using emotions, or facts, or emotions and facts combined. 

Letters to the editor are usually short and tight, rarely longer than 300 words.

Using a few carefully placed letters, you can generate plenty of community discussion. You can also keep an issue going by preventing it from disappearing from the public eye. You can stimulate the interest of the news media and create more coverage for the matters you're working on. You can also send a "good news" letter to bring recognition to people who deserve it or acknowledge the success of an effort.

Salina Post accepting letters to the editor

The Salina League of Women Voters held its 2024 General Election Forum on Oct. 20 at 1:30 in the Watson Room at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. 

Click the link above to watch the candidates answer questions from the media and the public. Candidates present at the forum included Senate District 24-John Baker, House District 69-Lori Blake, and Clarke Sanders; Saline County Commission District 2-Annie Grevas and Kathleen Malone Crouch.

Noticeably absent from the forum was State Senator J.R. Claeys, whose empty chair and name card can be seen on the far left of the table of candidates.&nbsp;

Check Salina Post for an article about the candidate's responses on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

2024 League of Women Voters General Election Candidate Forum

Due to damages from Sunday's severe weather, the bridge and road south of Wilson, Kansas will NOT be open by Memorial Day, May 27.&nbsp;

According to the Ellsworth County Highway Department, a date has not been set for the road/bridge to reopen.&nbsp;

Plan an alternate route if you plan to travel in the area.&nbsp;

READ MORE<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/3969fc82-b07d-4d4e-885d-fe75a7799560">:&nbsp;🎥UPDATED: Severe weather coverage May 19 — Salina Airport reports 100 mph winds</a>

River bridge, road project south of Wilson closed indefinetly 

Cope Notes is a text message-based service that provides individuals with randomly timed messages that contain anything from psychology facts to exercises and journaling prompts. Every subscriber’s text sequence is unique so that no two users ever receive the same message at the same time. 

Each <a href="https://copenotes.com/">Cope Notes</a> text must first undergo a thorough review process by a panel of peer-support advocates and mental health professionals, in order to ensure that the messages will have a positive effect on the subscriber’s health. The ultimate goal of the service is to train the brain to disrupt negative thoughts and promote a more positive pattern of thinking.

"We believe in the importance of mental health. We want to ensure our residents have access to the resources they need to stay healthy and thriving," said Saline County Health Officer Jason Tiller. "In my own personal experience with Cope Notes, I have found that the right messages seem to come at exactly the right time. It was been an uplifting experience for me, and I am thrilled we get to continue this service to our residents."

In 2022, Saline County initially offered the service for free to 300 residents. Because of the overwhelming response and in an effort to provide the service to more Saline County residents, the program is being offered at a 50 percent discount, according to information from the county.

To sign up for Cope Notes, go to&nbsp;<a href="https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001scLNLAEK27GI7j38iOkmbBLY7glKLN0Wy6uF_d-8TLam2TPUzrfQlc9LS5oNICbDRUIbIxFeAe9F9t_3cBzqfldl0v4T9wLfMfxV5qLVYcHiyw0WBSsZFYJWzG17ByUTXv2fd3MbRsZWmxNokDZI85TAvv_DybpQ8u3RGpTS-VoOBpVKw3mIuQf0KEWbdEz2&amp;c=e8h8gccDrdCcdY1GLzjAyWQ83iic1YREdFKlJQ0cHZXKLBBGRtWzSA==&amp;ch=qH131SvBWUOQqWkIzjrjNennoWrg5mcmyLAePutxO-lGfSWshstgHw==" target="_blank">this link&nbsp;</a>and enter code&nbsp;SACOHALF&nbsp;and your credit or debit card information.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Saline County continues to offer Cope Notes at 50-percent discount

Not seeing precipitation totals from your area after a rain or snow event? Consider becoming a CoCoRaHS volunteer.

"CoCoRaHS is an acronym for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. CoCoRaHS is a unique, non-profit, community-based network of volunteers of all ages and backgrounds working together to measure and map precipitation (rain, hail and snow). By using low-cost measurement tools, stressing training and education, and utilizing an interactive website, our aim is to provide the highest quality data for natural resource, education and research applications," the organization noted on its website.

After rain, hail, or snow storms, CoCoRaHS volunteers take precipitation measurements. Those totals are then recorded on the CoCoRaHS&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/ViewData/StateDailyPrecipReports.aspx?state=KS">website</a>&nbsp;(Kansas reporting).

The precipitation totals are used by various organizations and individuals, including the National Weather Service, other meteorologists, hydrologists, emergency managers, insurance adjusters, farmers and ranchers, and, of course, Salina Post.

For more information about CoCoRaHS and its March recruiting efforts or to sign up as a CoCoRaHS volunteer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cocorahs.org/marchmadness.aspx">click here</a>.

Precipitation reporting organization seeks local, area volunteers

By ROSARIO MENDEZ Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

What’s worse than a bogus charity? A bogus charity with a dishonest fundraiser. The FTC has sued and stopped dishonest charity fundraisers that&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/spot-and-stop-dishonest-charity-fundraisers">called people</a>&nbsp;to get them to donate to fake charities. Some prey on your kindness and desire to help people impacted by weather emergencies or a disaster. But when you get a call from a charity fundraiser, how do you know the caller is telling you the truth?

Ask the caller specific questions.

What is the charity’s name, phone number, or address? Write these down so you can confirm them later. Keep in mind that many charity names sound alike, and that sham charities often use names that are sound and look like names of legitimate charities.

How much of your donation will go directly to the programs you want to support?

Will your donation be tax-deductible? Not every call seeking a donation is from a charity. Some calls might be from Political Action Committees or other groups where donations are not deductible. See more questions to ask here.

Resist the pressure to donate on the spot.

After you’ve listened to the caller, hang up the phone and think about what they said. Then, go online and do your own research:

Search for the organization’s name and phone number, plus the word “scam” or “complaint.” What you find might help you decide if you want to make that donation.

Look up the organization’s name and address. Does it show up? If it doesn’t, that could be a sign the caller was lying to you.

See what these rating organizations say about the charity: BBB Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, and Candid.

If you get a donation request in the mail, do some research online before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

If you get a donation request in the mail,&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/charity">do some research online</a>&nbsp;before you donate. And if you spot a charity scam, report it to the FTC at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2020/09/www.reportfraud.ftc.gov">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.

FTC: How to spot and stop dishonest charity fundraisers

TOPEKA&nbsp;– The start of a new school year is an expensive time for families. If you are struggling to pay for phone and internet services, there are programs to help you stay connected.

During Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in encouraging those in need of assistance to apply for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program.&nbsp; Both programs help low-income individuals and families stay connected so they can access health care, attend classes, find employment, and call for help in an emergency.

Lifeline provides federal and state discounts up to $17.02 per month on phone service (wireless or residential) and broadband. Seven million Americans currently benefit from the program, including approximately 30,000 Kansans.

The Federal Communication Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Plan&nbsp; provides a monthly internet service discount of up to $30 and a one-time device discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer or tablet. According to FCC data, more than 20 million U.S. households are currently enrolled, including approximately 120,000 in Kansas.

Eligibility&nbsp;is based on income&nbsp;(at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for Lifeline and at or below 200% for Affordable Connectivity Plan)&nbsp;or participation in certain assistance programs&nbsp;such as:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) •&nbsp; Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) •&nbsp; Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA) •&nbsp; Veterans Pensions &amp; Survivors Pension Benefit •&nbsp; Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance •&nbsp; Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families •&nbsp; Head Start Tribal Programs (income based) •&nbsp; Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands&nbsp;&nbsp;

Anyone who qualifies for Lifeline is automatically eligible to participate in Affordable Connectivity Plan. Others may still qualify for the plan if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Are approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including the&nbsp;USDA Community Eligibility Provision.&nbsp; • Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year.&nbsp; • Meet the eligibility criteria for a participating broadband provider’s existing low-income program.&nbsp;

Due to higher income maximums, Affordable Connectivity Plan  also has the potential to help families that may not qualify for other types of assistance. The maximum income for a family of four to qualify for the&nbsp; program is&nbsp;$60,000 per year compared to $40,500 for Lifeline. Both Lifeline and Affordable Connectivity Plan offer additional discounts for subscribers living on tribal lands.

More information on income eligibility, participating providers, and the enrollment process is available on the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmtjYy5rcy5nb3YvdGVsZWNvbW11bmljYXRpb25zL2xpZmVsaW5lP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA5MTEuODIzOTEwMjEifQ.SgutPMf7jc8B89ZmFqxVxA5ZBkjKYdszBMiWwbYC7oo/s/1510803030/br/225606126077-l" target="_blank">KCC’s website</a>.

Plans available to help Kansans unable to pay for phone, internet services stay connected

Following is recent booking activity for the Saline County Jail, as provided by law enforcement. Photos, if provided, are courtesy of Saline County Jail. All persons are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

NAME:&nbsp;&nbsp;Sutton Feldkamp, Dannyel Marie

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal littering; Public property

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor, Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Poss of opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant and Robbery

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Theft of prop/serv;&lt;$1500 2 or more conv in 5yr

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Contempt of Court; Direct

NAME:&nbsp;Spotted War Bonnet, Charles William

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Battery; Knowing/recklessly causing bodily harm and Failure to appear

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 23

The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a severe thunderstorm warning that remains in effect until 10:45 p.m. Tuesday for northeastern McPherson County and southeastern Saline County.

As of 10:05 p.m., a severe storm was located about 7 miles south of Gypsum, or 12 miles east of Lindsborg, moving east at 15 mph.

Radar indicates the storm could cause significant damage. Large hail may damage roofs, windows, siding, and vehicles. Strong winds could damage trees and structures.

Residents in the warning area should take shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building.

Severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for parts of Saline, McPherson counties

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Army revealed new gender-neutral fitness standards on Tuesday.

The new standards, which will be graduated in over the next seven months, require that men and women meet the same fitness benchmarks for 21 combat specialties.

The positions where such standards would be put in place include infantry officer, an M1 Abrams tank armor crewman, special forces members and artillery crew.

The Army had been working on revising its guidelines over the last year, but leveling standards for men and women in combat fields has also been a priority of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

US Army reveals new gender-neutral fitness standards

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Probation Violation

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Use/poss drug paraphernalian/human body and Outside warrant/NCIC hit

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;Failure to appear

REQUESTED CHARGE(S):&nbsp;&nbsp;Return for court testimony

Saline County Jail Bookings, April 22

SALINE COUNTY—Law enforcement investigating a stolen vehicle reported some good news on Tuesday.

On April 18, the Saline County Sheriff Investigators received information that a 2014 GMC Cargo van owned by JAE Electric&nbsp; that had been stolen April 13, was possibly at a residence in Rice County, according to Sheriff Roger Soldan.

Investigators worked with Rice County Deputies and a search warrant was conducted at the property.&nbsp; Deputies were able to recover the van and all the equipment inside the van and turned it over to the company. Deputies also have identified a&nbsp; suspect, according to Soldan.

Sheriff: Deputies recover van stolen from local business

This Afternoon Sunny, with a high near 79. South southwest wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 53. South wind 13 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3 p.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79. South southwest wind 6 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Tuesday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. South southeast wind 6 to 8 mph. Wednesday Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 74. South southeast wind 6 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Wednesday Night A chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1 a.m. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Chance of precipitation is 70%.&nbsp;&nbsp;

NWS: Mild start to the week with storms likely midweek

Are you passionate about delivering timely, accurate, and engaging local news? Eagle Media in Salina is hiring a full-time news director to lead newsroom operations across SalinaPost.com and Eagle Radio stations — including 99KG, KINA, and 94.5 Prime FM.

As news director, you’ll be responsible for writing and reporting news for Salina Post while also producing and delivering daily audio newscasts. You’ll work closely with community leaders, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to keep the public informed about what matters most in Salina and the surrounding areas.

Publishing news content on SalinaPost.com

Producing and delivering audio newscasts on-air

Conducting interviews and covering community events

Building relationships with local newsmakers

Utilizing social media to enhance audience engagement

Eagle is seeking a strong journalist with experience in reporting or broadcasting, solid writing and audio production skills, and a passion for community news.

Includes health insurance, 401(k), paid vacation, and participation in Eagle Communications’ Employee Stock Ownership Plan.

This position offers a salary range of $35,000 to $45,000 annually, based on experience.

Ready to lead the conversation in Salina?

<a href="https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=7c09ab04-f576-4f5a-bdb8-f914cdd1f344&amp;ccId=19000101_000001&amp;lang=en_US&amp;source=CC4&amp;selectedMenuKey=CareerCenter">Click here to apply.</a>

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Finalists will be subject to a criminal background and motor vehicle check. Eagle Communications, Inc. is an employee-owned company and an EEO employer.

Join the team: Eagle Media hiring full-time news director in Salina

By NATE KING Salina Post

A 23-year-old Salina man was arrested Sunday evening after allegedly threatening a man with a knife during a disturbance at a residence.

According to Salina Police Captain James Feldman, the incident began around 7 p.m. on April 20 when a 45-year-old man approached an officer in the 400 block of Montrose Street and reported a disturbance nearby.

Officers responded to the residence and found that Rodolfo Giner Manjarrez, a resident at the location, had been heavily intoxicated and was arguing with multiple people inside the home. During the altercation, Manjarrez allegedly pushed a 52-year-old resident and, when the 45-year-old man intervened, retrieved a knife and threatened him.

The 45-year-old man left the residence and contacted police. Officers then made contact with Manjarrez, who was taken into custody without incident. A knife was recovered at the scene.

While being escorted from the residence, Manjarrez reportedly made additional threats toward others in the home.

He was booked into the Saline County Jail on requested charges of aggravated assault, criminal threat, and domestic battery.

SPD arrests Salina man accused of threatening resident with knife

The 31st annual Kansas Storytelling Festival is less than one week away! The Festival will be held on Friday and Saturday, April 25 and 26, 2025 in Downs.

As the “Storytelling Capital of Kansas,” the small northcentral town of Downs welcomes you to a weekend of stories and unforgettable hospitality.

This celebration of the art of storytelling promises to be an event filled with laughter, wonder, and the timeless magic of storytelling. Nationally-known festival favorites are invited, along with new voices for stories from all genres for all ages.

Headlining storytellers are Ed Stivender, Pipppa White, Michael D. McCarty, Priscilla Howe, and Paul Strickland.

Ed Stivender was inducted into the National Storytelling Association’s Circle of Excellence in 1996. After giving up his Connecticut school teaching job, Ed has told his mostly humorous stories around the globe and has been a featured storyteller at national and international festivals.

Pippa White calls her One’s Company Productions “part theatre, part storytelling, part history.” She has performed at universities and colleges, conferences, performing arts centers, museums, libraries, and festivals in over 30 states. Audiences call them unique, captivating, and touching. One audience member said, “her performances are entertainment wrapped in history intertwined with “inspiration."

Michael D. McCarty is a newcomer to the Kansas festival. He specializes in stories of African and African-American history and culture, multi-cultural stories, etc. Michael describes his life as: student activist, Black Panther, U.S. Army martial arts instructor, acupuncturist, world traveler, spiritual seeker, construction worker, storyteller, husband, father, crazy friend. Never a dull moment!

Priscilla Howe is primarily known as a performer for children, but she has a full repertoire of stories for grownups and older kids. She offers a disclaimer, with a little wink: "All my stories start with the seed of truth." Priscilla tours the country and abroad telling stories and giving workshops. To date, she has performed in 14 countries.

Paul Strickland always adapts his stories to whatever audience is in front of him, he loves telling stories in every imaginable environment, from comedy clubs to elementary and middle schools, corporate events and even two prisons. Paul was a Featured Teller: NEW VOICE at the National Storytelling Festival in 2023.

Listeners will also enjoy the Tall Tales Contest (Friday night), the local “Legends” Storytellers including Native American stories and the Master Storytellers (previous winners of three tall tales contests).

Bring your own stories to tell during the Swappin’ Grounds session on Saturday afternoon.

More information can be found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/">https://www.kansasstorytellingfestival.com/&nbsp;</a>or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/KansasStorytellingFestival">Kansas Storytelling</a>&nbsp;on Facebook.&nbsp;

'Storytelling Capital of Kansas' celebrates 31st annual festival

By:&nbsp;<a href="https://stateline.org/author/rsequeira/">Robbie Sequeira</a>&nbsp;

Many conservative-led states rely heavily on dollars from Washington.

Early this month, the U.S. Department of Education issued an ultimatum to K-12 public schools and state education agencies: Certify that you are not engaging in discrimination under the banner of diversity, equity and inclusion, or risk losing federal funding — including billions in support for low-income students.

The backlash was immediate. Some states with Democratic governors refused to comply, arguing that the directive lacks legal basis, fails to clearly define what constitutes “<a href="https://www.ed.gov/media/document/reminder-of-legal-obligations-undertaken-exchange-receiving-federal-financial-assistance-and-request-certification-under-title-vi-and-sffa-v-harvard-april-3" target="_blank">illegal DEI practices</a>,” and threatens vital equity-based initiatives in their schools.

After lawsuits from the National Education Association teachers union and the American Civil Liberties Union, the Department of Education agreed to delay enforcement until&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aclu.org/cases/national-education-association-et-al-v-us-department-of-education-et-al?document=Agreement" target="_blank">after April 24</a>.

But states across the country, both liberal- and conservative-led, are worried about losing other aid: the pandemic-era money that in some cases they’ve already spent or committed to spending.

The Department of Education has long played a critical role in distributing federal funds to states for K-12 education, including Title I grants to boost staffing in schools with high percentages of low-income students, and emergency relief like that provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conservative-led states — particularly Mississippi, South Dakota and Arkansas — rely the most heavily on these funds to sustain services in high-need districts.

The 15 states with the highest percentage of their K-12 budget coming from federal funding in fiscal year 2022 — the latest year with data available from the National Center for Education Statistics — voted for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Similarly, 10 of the 15 states receiving the highest amounts of Title I funding in fiscal year 2024 also voted for Trump.

Mississippi and Kentucky have sent letters to the Department of Education expressing concern over halted pandemic aid.

The clash over federal funding comes even as the future of the Department of Education is murky, given President Donald Trump’s pledge to dismantle the department.

<a href="https://www.datawrapper.de/_/H69Mw/">Click here to see K-12 funding in all states</a>

In letters to the Department of Education, state officials and superintendents in Illinois, New York and Wisconsin pushed back against the DEI directive.

<a href="https://www.nyssba.org/clientuploads/nyssba_pdf/titlevi-040525.pdf#:~:text=The%20certification%20remains%20in%20effect%2C%20as%20do,judicial%20decision%20or%20change%20the%20terms%20and" target="_blank">New York officials</a>&nbsp;said they would not provide additional certification beyond what the state already has done, asserting that there “are no federal or State laws prohibiting the principles of DEI.” Illinois Superintendent Tony Sanders&nbsp;<a href="https://www.isbe.net/Documents/ISBE-Response-Title-VI-Certification.pdf" target="_blank">wrote that</a>&nbsp;he was concerned that the Department of Education was changing the conditions of federal funding without a formal administrative process. Wisconsin Superintendent Jill Underly&nbsp;<a href="https://dpi.wi.gov/sites/default/files/imce/news/4.9.25_-_DPI_Letter_to_USDE.pdf" target="_blank">questioned the legality of the order</a>.

New York State Department of Education Counsel and Deputy Commissioner Daniel Morton-Bentley noted that the federal department’s current stance on DEI starkly contrasts with its position during Trump’s first term, when then-Education Secretary Betsy DeVos supported such efforts.

<a href="https://www.denverpost.com/2025/04/10/colorado-trump-dei-order-state-education-board/" target="_blank">Colorado</a>&nbsp;and<a href="https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2025-04-11/california-defies-trump-education-order-certify-school-districts-eliminate-dei" target="_blank">&nbsp;California</a>&nbsp;also confirmed they would not comply with the Department of Education’s order.

While some states with liberal leaders are gearing up for legal battles and possible revocation of funding, conservative-led states such as Florida have embraced the federal directive as part of a broader push to reshape public education.

In Florida,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2023/266" target="_blank">anti-DEI laws</a>&nbsp;have been in place dating back to 2023. In fact,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2025/03/03/florida-schools-say-theyll-comply-with-federal-push-eliminate-dei/" target="_blank">many&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2025/03/03/florida-schools-say-theyll-comply-with-federal-push-eliminate-dei/" target="_blank">school&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2025/03/03/florida-schools-say-theyll-comply-with-federal-push-eliminate-dei/" target="_blank">districts&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.tampabay.com/news/education/2025/03/03/florida-schools-say-theyll-comply-with-federal-push-eliminate-dei/" target="_blank">and the state education department</a>&nbsp;say they plan to follow the federal department’s directives, noting the similar state laws.

In March, the Department of Education abruptly rescinded previously approved extensions of pandemic-era aid, ending access to funds months ahead of the original March 2026 deadline.

When the Massachusetts governor’s office voiced concern over that decision, the federal department’s reply on social media was blunt: “<a href="https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fexplore%3Fref_src%3Dtwsrc%255Etfw%257Ctwcamp%255Etweetembed%257Ctwterm%255E1907126614107816273%257Ctwgr%255E13023b2f184f133a77dd7478cf0809d5afc7e4bf%257Ctwcon%255Es1_%26ref_url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.k12dive.com%252Fnews%252Fstates-lawmakers-pushback-on-covid-fund-spending-extensions%252F744811%252F" target="_blank">COVID is over.</a>”

Sixteen&nbsp;<a href="https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/state-covid-schools-funding-complaint.pdf" target="_blank">mostly Democratic-led&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.courthousenews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/state-covid-schools-funding-complaint.pdf" target="_blank">states</a>&nbsp;and the District of Columbia filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Education and Secretary Linda McMahon, challenging the abrupt rescission of previously approved extensions for spending COVID-19 education relief funds.

But backlash against abrupt federal cuts to education has not been limited to blue states.

Mississippi’s Department of Education warned the cuts would jeopardize more than $137 million in already obligated funds, slated for literacy initiatives, mental health services and infrastructure repairs. “The impact of this sudden reversal is detrimental to Mississippi students,” state Superintendent Lance Evans wrote in&nbsp;<a href="https://mdek12.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/59/2025/04/MS-ESSER-Letter-04.02.25-FINAL.pdf" target="_blank">a letter</a>&nbsp;to McMahon.

The letter also outlines the state’s repeated — but unsuccessful — efforts to draw down millions in approved funds since February.

Shanderia Minor, a spokesperson for the Mississippi education department, told Stateline the agency is awaiting next steps and direction about the funds and federal directives.

In Kentucky, state Education Commissioner Robbie Fletcher&nbsp;<a href="https://kentuckylantern.com/briefs/ky-education-commissioner-sounds-alarm-about-sudden-halt-to-federal-covid-payments-to-schools/" target="_blank">told districts</a>&nbsp;— which stand to lose tens of millions in pandemic aid — that abrupt federal changes leave them “in a difficult position,” with schools already having committed funds to teacher training and facility upgrades.

According to Kentucky Department of Education spokesperson Jennifer Ginn, the state has about $18 million in unspent pandemic aid funds left to distribute to districts. And districts have about $38 million in unspent funds, for a total $56 million that could be lost.

Lauren Farrow, a former Florida public school teacher, told Stateline that schools that receive Title I money are already underfunded — and the federal threat only widens the gap.

“Florida is pouring billions into education — but where is it going? Because we’re not seeing it in schools, especially not in Title I schools,” said Farrow. “I taught five minutes away from a wealthier school, and we didn’t even have pencils. Teachers were buying shoes for students. Why is that still happening?”

Tafshier Cosby, senior director of the Center for Organizing and Partnerships at the National Parents Union, a parents advocacy group, told Stateline that while most families don’t fully understand the various school funding systems, they feel the impact of cuts in the classroom.

Cosby said parents are worried about the loss of support services for students with disabilities, Title I impacts, and how debates about DEI may deflect from more urgent needs like literacy and teacher support.

“We’ve been clear: DEI isn’t the federal government’s role — it’s up to states,” she said. “But the confusion is real. And the impact could be devastating.”

Today, as a consultant working with teachers across Florida’s Orange County Public Schools — one of the largest districts in the country — Farrow says many educators are fearful and confused about how to support their students under changing DEI laws.

“Teachers are asking, ‘Does this mean I can’t seat a student with glasses at the front of the room anymore?’ There’s so much fear around what we’re allowed to do now.”

“There’s no one giving teachers guidance or even basic acknowledgment. We’re just left wondering what we’re allowed to say or do — and that’s dangerous.”

Amanda Hernández contributed to this report. Stateline reporter Robbie Sequeira can be reached at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rsequeira@stateline.org">rsequeira@stateline.org</a>.

Federal education cuts and Trump DEI demands leave states, teachers in limbo

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Freddy Fermin hit a winning single in the 11th and the Kansas City Royals rebounded from a blown two-run, ninth-inning lead to beat Colorado 4-3 on Tuesday night and drop the Rockies to 4-18.

Daniel Lynch IV (3-0) pitched a hitless inning as part of a five-hitter, sending Colorado to its ninth loss in 10 games. The Rockies are 1-12 on the road.

Jacob Stallings put Colorado ahead 3-2 with three-run double after Carlos Estévez walked the bases loaded with two outs in the ninth.

Salvador Perez singled off Seth Halvorsen starting the bottom half, advanced on Maikel Garcia’s double and scored on Michael Massey’s sacrifice fly.

With automatic runner Mark Canha on second starting the 11th, Tyler Kinley (0-1) intentionally walked Bobby Witt Jr., who extended his hitting streak to 14 games with an eighth-inning single. Kinley threw a wild pitch and intentionally walked Vinnie Pasquantino, and Fermin lined a single to center.

Drew Waters homered in the sixth off Ryan Feltner and Kyle Isbel bunted for an RBI single in the eighth that drove in Waters, who slid home ahead of the glove flip from first baseman Michael Toglia.

With runners on second and third in the 10th, Mickey Moniak was picked off third base by Fermin, the Kansas City catcher.

Kansas City has gone 17 games without scoring more than four runs, the longest streak by an AL team since the Royals' 19 straight in 2018. Kansas City has scored four or fewer runs in 22 of 24 games this season.

Rockies RHP Chase Dollander (1-2, 7.36 ERA) and Royals RHP Michael Lorenzen (1-3, 4.57 ERA) start Wednesday night.

⚾ Fermin hits winning single in 11th inning, Royals beat Rockies 

Kansas Wesleyan's <a href="http://kwucoyotes.com/services/go.ashx/4ea17ecc-9e76-439c-bffd-da780545d86f?elinkdata=25498">Hayden Bellamy</a> was selected to the All-KCAC Women's Tennis Second Team as the conference coaches made their all-conference selections, as announced by the conference office.

Bellamy was picked to the second-team with a 5-7 mark at the No. 1 position in KCAC play for the Coyotes. She had a 5-12 overall record in dual competition all at the No. 1 position, playing against some of the top competition in the KCAC and the region.

In doubles play, Bellamy posted a 10-2 record in the conference play and a 16-10 overall record in doubles, including a 12-5 mark in dual matches.

Bellamy helped lead the Coyotes to a 9-8 overall record and a 7-5 record in the KCAC.

KWU is the No. 6 seed in the KCAC Women's Tennis Championship bracket and will play No. 3 seeded Oklahoma Wesleyan at 9 a.m. at Smoky Valley High School in Lindsborg starting at 9 a.m. on Thursday.

Conference tennis coaches selected the following athletes as either first team, second team, or honorable mention All-KCAC:

McPherson College took home the KCAC Women's Tennis regular-season conference title for the second year in a row, with a perfect 12-0 mark in conference play. The Bulldogs held Bethel College at bay in the standings, as the Threshers finished second at 11-1.

Daniela Herrera of Bethel College was named the KCAC Women's Tennis Player of the Year, the second time she has earned the honor in her career (2023). Tracy Llamas of the University of Saint Mary earned the KCAC Women's Tennis Scholar-Athlete of the Year honor, while Kyla Metro of Bethany College took home the KCAC Women's Tennis Sportsmanship Award.

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