Episode description

 In recognition of Public Schools week this week, we're highlighting the great things SBOs are doing with ESSER funds to support their students!

In this episode, the guests discuss the impact of ESSER funds on their school districts. They provide background information on their districts and demographics. The conversation covers topics such as the initial reactions to the funding, the challenges faced by business and grants offices, the transition off ESSER funds, and the focus on addressing learning loss and mental health services. The guests reflect on the exhaustion and workload associated with managing the funds and highlight the positive outcomes and improvements achieved through the use of ESSER funds.

Guests:
Jon Lansa, Senior Director of Grants & Federal Programs, Tucson Unified School District
Christopher Smith, Chief Financial Officer, Katy Independent School District
Nakia Coy, Executive Director of Federal Programs, Katy ISD
Lynette Cornell, Coordinator of Grant Compliance, Katy ISD

ASBO International's ESSER Funding Survey Results: https://network.asbointl.org/viewdocument/esser-in-action-k-12-priorities-s

USDOE ARP Extension Liquidation Letter:
https://oese.ed.gov/files/2024/01/ARP-Liquidation-Extension-Letter-1.9.24-final-for-signature-v3.pdf

Takeaways

• ESSER funds have had a significant impact on school districts, allowing them to address learning loss and provide support for mental health services.
• Managing ESSER funds has been challenging for business and grants offices, requiring additional staff and compliance measures.
• Transitioning off ESSER funds requires careful planning and reprioritization of resources.
• The focus on learning loss and mental health services has been a key priority for districts using ESSER funds.
• Despite the challenges and exhaustion, the use of ESSER funds has resulted in positive outcomes and improvements in student outcomes.

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Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Association of School Business Officials International. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only. The "ASBO International" name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service. The presence of any advertising does not endorse, or imply endorsement of, any products or services by ASBO International.

ASBO International is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization and does not participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of, or in opposition to, any candidate for elective public office. The sharing of news or information concerning public policy issues or political campaigns and candidates are not, and should not be construed as, endorsements by ASBO Internatio...