Dripping Springs Independent School District is seeking community feedback on the use of its Federal Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Grant Programs.
DSISD qualified for two of the four available ESSER programs: ARP ESSER III and ESSERSUPP (Supplemental).
The funds from these programs provide school districts with resources for unreimbursed costs due to the coronavirus pandemic and for intensive educational supports for learning loss, according to the Texas Education Agency.
DSISD was allocated $2.4 million in ESSER III funds and $2.5 million in ESSER Supplemental funds. All funds must be used by 2024.
As required by the grant, school districts must expend a minimum of 20% of the grant fund on evidence-based interventions; ensure interventions respond to students’ academic, social and emotional needs; and address the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on certain student populations.
The grant also requires that DSISD review and revise, as applicable, its plan every six months — including receiving stakeholder input. In an effort to obtain parent and community feedback, the district developed a community survey, available at dsisdtx.us/esser. Community members are encouraged to share their input and opinions about how they would like the district to use these funds, keeping in mind the grant’s intent.
The survey will be open to the public until Monday, March 14.
Community feedback will be reviewed and considered as the district creates and updates its plans.
To learn more about the ESSER program, visit the TEA’s website at tea.texas. gov/finance-and-grants.
