ABC 11

WAKE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Two North Carolina congresswomen are urging the Department of Education to release millions of dollars owed to Wake County Public School System.

In Wake County alone, more than $8 million remains frozen despite having been previously approved by Congress.

The withheld funds support core programs that help schools hire and retain teachers, help students learning English, and provide services like mental health support, school safety, and STEM education.

Congresswomen Deborah Ross and Valerie Foushee sent a letter to the Secretary of Education Linda McMahon saying in part:

"We urge the department to immediately release all withheld funds and restore the trust and stability that our public education system urgently needs."