IHEP and 40 Organizations Urge Increased Funding for the Institute of Education Sciences

Washington, DC (March 23, 2026) – IHEP joined 40 organizations in signing a letter urging congressional appropriators to provide $900 million in Fiscal Year 2027 funding for the Institute of Education Sciences (IES). The coalition, representing education research, policy, and advocacy organizations, highlights the critical role IES plays in generating data, research, and evidence-based tools that inform education policy and practice nationwide. The letter emphasizes that despite representing less than one percent of the U.S. Department of Education’s budget, IES has far-reaching impacts through its support for research, statistical data collection, and program evaluation. Sustained and increased investment would help restore key data systems, expand evidence-based research, and ensure timely dissemination of information needed to improve student outcomes. Without adequate funding, the letter warns that gaps in research, delayed data collection, and limited access to evidence-based resources could hinder efforts to support students, educators, and policymakers. 

Read the full letter.