School Construction Funds Remain a Question

By Joetta L. Sack

Washington

The $1.2 billion federal pot for emergency school repairs and maintenance could be in jeopardy under the Bush administration's budget plan, some school officials fear.

President Bush indicated late last month that he wants to allow states to spend the money, appropriated late last year and scheduled to be given out in July, on other priorities if they so choose. House Democrats say that could derail districts' plans to use the money for urgent repairs this year.

Mr. Bush also signaled that he doesn't want to continue federal funding for school construction. The issue has taken on prominence in recent years, largely dividing Republicans and Democrats over the proper extent of federal...