Dan Goldhaber, the Director of the Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research (CALDER), recently conducted a study on the impact of ESSER funds on K-12 schools in 2023. The research, titled “ESSER and Student Achievement: Assessing the Impacts of the Largest One-Time Federal Investment in K12 Schools,” was co-authored by Grace Falken and provides insights into the effects of federal relief funds on education.
The study analyzed 5,000 districts across 30 states and found that the ESSER funds had modest impacts on student achievement. Interestingly, the research revealed that the impact of the funds on math achievement outweighed the impact on reading achievement. This is an important finding as it highlights the need for targeted investments in specific subject areas to maximize the benefits of federal funding.
Dan Goldhaber discussed these findings with Paul E. Peterson on The Education Exchange podcast. The conversation delved into the implications of the research and the importance of understanding how federal funds are being utilized in K-12 schools. Goldhaber emphasized the need for effective allocation of resources to ensure that students are receiving the support they need to succeed academically.
The study’s findings have significant implications for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders in the education sector. By understanding the differential impact of ESSER funds on math and reading achievement, decision-makers can make more informed choices about resource allocation and intervention strategies. This research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of federal relief funds and highlights areas where targeted investments can lead to improved student outcomes.
As we look towards the future of education funding and policy, it is essential to consider the lessons learned from studies like this one. By focusing on evidence-based research and data-driven decision-making, we can ensure that federal funds are being used effectively to support student learning and achievement. The findings of this study underscore the importance of thoughtful planning and strategic investment in K-12 education to drive positive outcomes for all students.
