State Rep. Kyle Mullins, D-Lackawanna, has announced that more than $46 million in federal funding will be received by school districts within the 112th District to aid in returning students safely to the classroom. Dunmore School District is scheduled to receive $3.24 million.
“It’s been over a year since the COVID-19 pandemic pulled students out of the classroom and into virtual learning programs. My heart breaks for our students who missed out on so many educational, social and extracurricular experiences and memories,” Mullins said. “This support for area school districts will ensure that students are returning to safe, clean and positive learning environments, which should be a priority at all levels of government.”
The other school districts in the 112th Legislative District which will receive federal funding include Scranton School District, $35.76 million; Mid Valley School District, $4.08 million, and Valley View School District, $2.96 million.
These funds are part of the $4.9 billion awarded to Pennsylvania via the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden. These dollars can be used for food service; professional training; technology purchases; sanitization and cleaning supplies; summer and after-school programs; mental health support and more.
At least 20% of the funds must be used to address learning loss along with the social, emotional, and academic needs of underrepresented students. This shall include students from low-income families, students with disabilities, and students experiencing homelessness or other hardships.
School districts and charter schools must apply to the Pennsylvania Department of Education to receive an apportioned share of the funds set aside for these purposes. Funds must be used by September 2024.
