Over the past few years, schools have seen a significant boost in funding due to pandemic aid. This influx of money has allowed schools to make transformative changes, such as hiring social workers, providing laptops to students, renovating buildings, offering tutoring, and enhancing summer school programs.
However, this era of increased funding is coming to an end. Schools across the country have until the end of this month to finalize their spending plans for the remaining $123 billion from the American Rescue Plan. If any money is not allocated by this deadline, schools may have to return the funds to the federal government.
While some states, like Arizona, have been proactive in reminding districts to allocate these funds, there is still concern that some schools may not meet the deadline. Extensions are available for schools to spend the remaining aid until March 2026, but the deadline for deciding how to use the funds remains the same.
Despite the looming deadline, federal officials express confidence that schools have been diligent in spending their American Rescue Plan dollars, with 87% of the funds already spent and reimbursed. The remaining money is also being used for various purposes, such as tutoring, construction projects, and community outreach.
To support schools in meeting the deadline and spending their aid effectively, federal officials are open to applications for extensions to focus on priorities like intensive tutoring, attendance efforts, and additional instructional time. Several states have already applied for extensions on behalf of districts and schools, totaling $1.1 billion in aid.
While some schools have faced challenges in spending down their pandemic aid, including construction delays, supply-chain issues, staffing shortages, and lower-than-expected participation in programs, the focus remains on ensuring that the funds are used to benefit students and educators.
As schools work to allocate the remaining aid and meet the spending deadline, the impact of federal COVID relief funds on student outcomes and educational opportunities continues to be a critical aspect of the ongoing conversation surrounding public education.
