Schools getting a crash course on federal funding

Schools across the U.S. are weighing how to use a windfall from the federal government’s latest coronavirus relief package.

Districts want to ease the harm of the pandemic and tackle problems that existed long before the coronavirus. The assistance that was approved this month totals $123 billion.  The aid will help schools reopen and expand summer programs.  It also offers a chance to pursue programs that have long been seen as too expensive, such as intensive tutoring, mental health services and major curriculum upgrades.

The Grand Forks School District is expected to receive nearly $18.5 million dollars in so-called ESSER funding.  Fargo will pick up the largest chunk of change at nearly $30 million.  Other area districts slated to receive funding:

Grafton………..$3,055,516

Emerado………$1,109,624

Larimore……….$677,492

Northwood……$597,283

Thompson…….$134,707