ARP-funded initiatives support the safe reopening of schools and aim to reverse underlying inequities faced by students who have been disproportionately impacted by COVID.
Lawmakers in several more states have moved to ban the teaching of critical race theory with laws that set parameters for how educators teach current events and U.S. history.
The U.S. Education Department released its long-awaited FAQ on allowably using funds allocated through ESSER and GEER on May 26, providing answers to questions state and local educational agencies had on numerous issues, including construction and renovation, as well as providing vaccinations to students and staff.
Calling critical race theory "deeply flawed and controversial," 20 state attorneys general want it left out of Department of Ed history and civics guidance.
"Anyone who is fully vaccinated can participate in indoor and outdoor activities large or small without wearing a mask or physical distancing," said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.
Federal Communications Commission and U.S. Education Department fund Emergency Connectivity program and Emergency Broadband Benefit programs under American Rescue Plan.
As states and local districts seek stimulus funding, address learning losses while being mindful of three related areas of concern: social and emotional well-being, growing inequities among vulnerable groups, and teachers' mental health.
One small, silver lining of the pandemic may be a collective understanding and acknowledgment that some students and families are suffering more than others.
