Federal stimulus overview, Aug. 2021

The following overview and update appeared in the Aug. 2021 edition of Cornerstone:

Federal stimulus packages

The following table contains information on the three stimulus packages, the amount Spencerport will receive, and the funding end date:

Stimulus package

Amount for SCSD

End date of funding

 

  1. Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, March 2020

 

$611,390

 

Sept. 30, 2022

 

  1. Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act, December 2020

 

$3,372,021

 

Sept. 30, 2023

 

  1. American Rescue Plan – Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP-ESSER) Act, March 2021

 

$4,938,765*
*(est. $900,000 slated specifically for summer enrichment, afterschool programs, and learning loss)

 

Sept. 30, 2024

 

The stimulus funds are restricted in how they may be applied, and the eligible expenses focus primarily on programs, services and support for students, including:

  • Response to/addressing learning loss,
  • social and emotional needs,
  • continuation of education services,
  • improved coordinated responses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus,
  • activities to address unique needs of low-income children, children with disabilities, English learners, racial and ethnic minorities, students experiencing homelessness, and foster care youth. This includes outreach and service delivery to meet the needs of each population.
  • Professional development and training for staff on sanitization and minimizing the spread of infectious diseases
  • Purchase of supplies to sanitize and clean facilities
  • Implementing plans for possible long-term closure for meals to eligible students, technology for online learning, and education services for students with disabilities
  • Purchase of educational technology
  • Mental health services and supports
  • Summer learning and afterschool programs
  • School facility repairs and improvements
  • Capital improvements or upgrades to improve indoor air quality
  • Development and implementation of public health protocols, in line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control
  • Activities to maintain the continuity of operations in local educational agencies (day care providers, etc.) and employ of existing staff in those agencies

Both federal and state government entities caution school districts to be mindful in their planning for and prioritizing these stimulus-related expenses, as this funding will end in three years. After 2024, districts will be responsible for sustaining these costs.