Gov. Greg Abbott and other state officials this afternoon announced that they would release $11.2 billion in one-time federal funds to Texas schools.
Designed to help districts address unfinished learning and costs incurred because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the funds were approved as part of three separate pieces of legislation.
“We are grateful that the governor and the TEA heard our call to distribute the COVID-19 relief funds that Congress appropriated specifically for public schools,” said Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde. “This is very good news for Austin's students, and will go a long way to helping us fulfill our mission to educate every child, every day.”
AISD will receive $156 million in two allocations, said Jacob Reach, chief of intergovernmental relations and board services.
“Two thirds of this amount is available immediately, and the remaining one-third will be provided at a later date. Tomorrow we expect additional information on how we can request the funds and any additional requirements for the use and allocation of funding,” Reach said. “We’re looking forward to working with our community to determine the most impactful use of this funding.”
Allowable uses for the grant funds include technology, ventilation systems, professional development, extended instructional time and more. This round of funding must be spent by Sept. 30, 2023.