What Is Sequestration?

• In dictionary terms, to sequester is to hold seize or isolate property until debts are paid. In political terms, sequestration refers to across-the-board budget cuts to reduce federal debt. If unaltered, the cuts, which affect every area of federal government, run through 2021.

How did we get here?

• The Budget Control Act of 2011 set up the sequester, which wasn’t expected to go into law, but was agreed to as part of a debt ceiling compromise. Congress was to submit a deficit reduction plan to the president before Jan. 2. The January deadline was delayed to March 1.

When does this happen?

• Federal programs are distributed by formula to states that then distribute them to local school districts. While some federal programs will make cuts immediately, the U.S. Department of Education said in a July 2012 memo that it will move any across-the-board cuts to July 2013 appropriations. Federal appropriations have not been set. On March 27 a continuing resolution, which extends federal funding in lieu of new appropriations, will end.

Source: Staff Report

Glossary

• Formula grant: Noncompetitive awards based on a predetermined formula.

• Competitive grant: Programs in which those eligible may submit applications for grants, which are then awarded following specific guidelines.

• TRIO: Federal outreach and student services programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. TRIO includes eight programs targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students and individuals with disabilities.

• Upward Bound: The program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in precollege performance and in higher education. Upward Bound serves high school students from low-income families and high school students from families in which neither parent holds a bachelor’s degree. The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education and enroll in and graduate from institutions of postsecondary education.

Source: Staff Report