In March 2021, the American Rescue Plan (ARP) was signed into law. ARP dedicated $122 billion to the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund. This grant is known as ESSER III. The intent and purpose of ESSER III is to help safely reopen, sustain the healthy and safe operation of schools and address the impact of the coronavirus on students. Part of the ESSER III grant requires each school district to develop and publish a plan for the safe return to in person instruction and continuity of services. During 2021 spring/summer months, District 39, along with other districts across the nation, began planning for a successful 2021-2022 school year.  Priorities were set and they included:

(1) prioritizing the health and safety of students, staff, and educators,
(2) building school communities and supporting students’ social, emotional, and mental health, and
(3) advancing academic achievement and growth for students.

District 39 will utilize ESSER III funds to address the impact COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, on our students and schools. District 39 is required by statute to set aside 20 percent of its total ESSER III allocation to address learning loss.

Please provide feedback related to the ESSER III funding plan.