The United States Congress passed three bills to provide emergency economic assistance to state and local agencies due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds are intended to support high-need areas, where academic and non-academic components for school districts had a significant impact due to the pandemic. As additional funding became available and to reduce COVID-19 impacts, funding aimed to support States and local school districts in the safe reopening of schools, addressing learning gaps, and in the continued provision of support to students and families.

Fayette County Public Schools ESSER - Total Allocations

All ESSER funding is held at the state level. Fayette County Public Schools submits a plan and budget to the Georgia Department of Education for approval. Qualifying expenses are submitted utilizing a reimbursement system.

Fayette County Public Schools currently has all ESSER plans approved by the Georgia Department of Education. Plans are reviewed and updated as needs are identified and changes are noted within the school community. The CARES Act (ESSER I) addressed the initial, emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The safe reopening of schools and ongoing operations during the pandemic was addressed through the CRRSA Act (ESSER II). The ARP Act (ESSER III) addresses the ongoing need for federal support during the economic recovery, ongoing health effects, and continued school safety needs. For this reason, it is critical for Fayette County Public Schools to continue gathering feedback and needs from all stakeholders.