To support schools and districts in addressing the impact of COVID-19, Congress has provided financial support through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund. Funds are allocated to each state in the same proportion as their Title I, Part A grants.
In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act included $13 billion in ESSER funds.
In December 2020, an additional $54 billion for ESSER II was allocated through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA) Act.
The American Rescue Plan (ARP) authorized another $122 billion for ESSER III (also called “ARP ESSER”) in March 2021.
How Districts Can Use Their Funds
Districts have the flexibility to use the funds on any “activity authorized by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act.” Additionally, ESSER II and III legislation specifies that funds can be used to address learning loss. Your funds can be used for:
- Assessments
- Identifying and addressing unfinished learning
- Instructional materials
- Summer learning
- Professional development
- Mental health services
- Software and hardware
- Teacher pay
All Harris Education Solutions products are covered under the ESSER Funds and we welcome the opportunity to help you.
To start, simply take our SOLUTIONS TOOL here and we’ll be able to determine your high-priority needs.