There is a phrase in scripture that I hold dear, especially in troubled seasons like this: “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalm 11:3). In this defining hour for our schools, families, and neighborhoods, we find ourselves facing exactly that question.
The recent upheaval in federal education policy-the freezing of over $6 billion in funding, Supreme Court approval for deep Education Department layoffs, and the scramble as critical support programs face the chopping block-has landed hard on classrooms and kitchens across America. The effects ripple through after-school and summer learning centers in Georgia, programs for English-language learners in Maryland and elsewhere, and faith-based nonprofits that have quietly kept the lights on for underserved youth. Students, parents, and educators have all been left scrambling, many with just weeks to prepare for a school year without the supports they counted on (Education Week).
Now, I believe in subsidiarity-giving real authority to those closest to the need. Many communities, especially those forgotten by bureaucracy, will welcome a chance to shape education according to local wisdom and vision. But when Washington’s support simply vanishes overnight, it exposes the risk we take in hitching our children’s future to distant priorities and polarized battles.
Indeed, the past month has shown just how fragile that dependency is. A divided Congress appropriated funds, then a divided administration withheld them, then the courts handed the keys of K-12 education to a few powerful actors (AP News). Litigation rages from coast to coast-twenty-four states have taken the federal government to court (Reuters). Even many Republican senators called on President Trump to reverse the freeze, recognizing the cross-partisan impact (Reuters). Meanwhile, millions of children and families carry the consequences.
So where do we turn?
First, we return to one another. Federal bureaucracy may be deadlocked, but the spirit of neighborly action-the grit and grace of local leaders, churches, and parents-remains unbroken. I have watched churches open their doors as safe havens when funding dried up for after-school care. I have seen uncles, coaches, retired teachers, and neighbors step up as mentors, ensuring children have support when paid staff are let go (WABE).
Second, we double down on creative partnerships. We must be willing, as faith communities, to fill the breach with hands-on help and hope. Our sacred call is to “defend the cause of the fatherless” (Isaiah 1:17)-not only in word, but in food baskets, homework help, and the quiet counsel offered around a kitchen table. This is not new work; it is ancient, proven, and transformative. In my own ministry, we have seen children gain confidence, parents regain trust, and neighborhoods find unity when local mentorship replaces bureaucratic programs.
Third, let’s refuse division. It’s tempting, amid chaos, to assign blame-Washington, courts, or any particular leader. And yes, we must hold power to account. But my experience is that change flows strongest where hearts are joined across party, color, and income. There is a reason why, in the wake of these cuts, lawsuits, and executive orders, both red and blue states, city and rural communities, have found common cause defending the necessity of quality education for all our children.
What would it look like, friend, if instead of panicking or pointing fingers, we reinvested in the grassroots: school choice, mentorship, and after-school programs run by people you know by name? What if churches became the first responders, nonprofits became bridges, and parents became empowered voices rather than frustrated bystanders?
Let me be clear: public commitment to education must not waver. We should continue demanding restoration of vital funds and oversight (Time). But if we truly seek revival-in our schools and in our national spirit-the work cannot wait for an uncertain Washington. Real progress rises, as it always has, from faith, family, and fierce community leadership.
Our children are watching. The lesson they take from this season-will it be one of helplessness or hope? I pray we show them that when institutions falter, the people of God and the people of goodwill stand taller. Let’s answer this crisis with unity and bold love, proving that no freeze or layoff can diminish the power of neighborly action and spiritual renewal.
