NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The U.S. Department of Education just approved a plan to put hundreds of millions of dollars toward Tennessee schools.
WHAT WE KNOW:
The department just announced that $830 million from the American Rescue Plan will go toward education. It will be used to safely reopen schools, keep them safe and help give opportunities to kids, particularly those impacted by the pandemic, according to the department of education.
While these hundreds of millions of dollars are new, this funding really isn’t. Earlier this year, the department of education distributed $81 billion to 50 states and the District of Columbia. The remaining funds are being made available when state’s plans are approved, like what’s happening here.
Tennessee is receiving more than 2 billion total – this $830 million is the final bit.
Tennessee Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn said billions of dollars will be maximized to help K-12 students.
WHAT CAN PARENTS EXPECT?
Parents will see programs like what they call a high-dosage tutoring program over the next three years. They also plan to strengthen programs that support student readiness, and after school programs will also be expanded to help combat learning loss.
Rep. Jim Cooper also gave his support for the money coming to Tennessee, saying in part: “Many low-income and rural students were disproportionately affected by remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic just because they had no access—or no reliable access—to the internet.”
The department of education said this funding is part of a bigger effort to support kids and districts as they work to rebound from the pandemic.
What is the rebound?
As Middle Tennessee works to rebound from the impact of the Coronavirus, we want to help. Whether it's getting back to work, making ends meet during this uncertain time, or managing the pressure, we're committed to finding solution. In addition, we want to tell your stories of hope, inspiration, and creativity as Middle Tennessee starts to rebound.
Find more in the sections below
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Safely Back to School
How schools are changing, and what you can do to help your child get the most from their education, in-person or virtual -
Making Ends Meet
Find help on topics from rent to food to new belt-tightening techniques -
Managing the Pressure
Feeling isolated or frustrated? Learn ways to connect with people virtually, get counseling or manage your stress. -
Doing What’s Right
Keep track of the way people are spending your tax dollars and treating your community. -
State of Education
Find ways to cope with the new normal around schools and celebrate students’ success in the age of Coronavirus. -
We're Open Y'all
Support local businesses doing their best to stay open and serve their customers during Covid.
