As part of President Trump and Secretary McMahon’s effort to return education to the states, the U.S. Department of Education has approved the Wyoming Department of Education (WDE) for Educational Flexibility (Ed-Flex) authority. This designation gives the WDE authority to grant school districts relief from specific federal statutory and regulatory requirements, streamlining administrative processes, and allowing federal funds to better serve local student needs.
Under this authority, the WDE can review and approve Title I, Part A carryover waivers on a case-by-case basis, giving school districts the flexibility to carry over funds across fiscal years. It also allows the WDE to waive Title IV, Part A spending requirements for statutory percentage allocations across student support and academic enrichment program categories.
“Securing Ed-Flex authority is a major win for Wyoming schools, allowing us to cut unnecessary federal red tape and empower our school districts,” said State Superintendent Megan Degenfelder. “Wyoming knows best how to educate our students, not the federal government. By returning control and flexibility to our local communities, we ensure that resources are directly aligned with local educational priorities and student needs.”
Ed-Flex authority will take effect with the 2027–28 grant award year. Districts seeking waivers will apply through the upcoming consolidated application for Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) funding. This authority cannot be applied retroactively to current or prior grant award cycles. Applications will be evaluated individually to ensure proposed waivers support sound educational strategies while maintaining compliance with fundamental federal protections.
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Media Contact:
Dicky Shanor, Chief of Staff
307-777-7675
dicky.shanor@wyo.gov
