U.S. Dept. of Ed Issues State ARP ESSER Award Notification

This week the U.S. Department of Education issued a Grant Award Notification providing immediate access to two-thirds of each state’s allocation under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) fund. The remaining funds will become available after the submission of state applications next month.

Secretary Cardona has called on states to use ARP funding to offer crucial evidence-based summer, afterschool, and other extended learning and enrichment programs; support early childhood education; invest in staff capacity and avoid devastating layoffs. (Register for the U.S. Dept of Ed 3/29/21 Summer Learning Webinar)

State educational agencies and school districts are developing plans to expend these funds and this planning must receive input from stakeholders and the public.

Action Alert: NAMM members are urged to contact their State Lawmakers and local school districts now to ensure that Music and Arts education is included in all plans for in-person and remote education this summer and the 2021-22 school year.

• ARP ESSER Grant Award Allocation
• ARP ESSER Grant Award Assurances
• ARP ESSER Fact Sheet
• Education Stabilization Fund ESSER Web Page
• Letter to Chief State School Officers Announcing Grant Award