Updated 3/1/2022

In the determination of the plan for the use of the ARP ESSER III funds, all constituents of the district, the members of the Holt County child advocacy team, and the teacher union specifically were contacted and allowed access to the online form posted on the school website.  A google form was specific in asking how people would like to see funds used.  This included summer services, after school learning, purchase of high-quality teaching materials, teacher professional development, reduced class size, social-emotional resources, improving response efforts to viruses, purchasing sanitizing supplies or updates and improvements to school to reduce virus transmission.  This communication went directly to cell phones and emails for the link to be accessible via cell phone, computer or tablet. 

• It was determined that at least 20% of the $479,441, or approximately $96,000 will be spent to address the possible loss of learning which has occurred during the pandemic.  This will be addressed by the purchasing of updated curriculum and technology to help address the gaps created due to the pandemic.  This curriculum will allow for more technology integration and at home activities to address learning loss and help to get students back to grade level benchmarks.  It will also allow for the purchasing of technology ad-ons such as cases, keyboards, and electronic pens for improved communication with 1:1 devices.

  
  

• Approximately $22,000 will be used to pay a portion of the school psychologist’s salary and benefits.  This is compensation dedicated to time that she will utilize to address the mental health needs of all students to include students from low-income families, students of color, English learners, children with disabilities or students who are displaced from their homes.

• Approximately $50,000 has been earmarked for technology such as interactive white boards, computers, iPads and other accessories like cases, keyboards and electronic pens, to aid in the regular and substantive educational interaction between students and their classroom instructors include low-income students and students with disabilities.

• Finally, a small portion of funds ($24,650) were used to purchase a school bus to help increase social distancing for transportation and the remaining $287,000 will be used to address HVAC issues and updates in our facility to help us to continuously, and safely, operate our school for in-person learning in the case of a pandemic.