In the wake of COVID-19, school districts across the U.S. have made dramatic changes to the way students are educated. From remote and hybrid model classrooms to social distancing, masking and testing at in-person learning environments, schools are meeting new challenges daily — and these challenges carry an additional financial burden. But funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act can help to mitigate those expenses.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)[1], “The most significant funding for school districts under the CARES Act is the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER).”
[1] As of the November 20, 2020 update. Navigating the available funding and how to spend it isn’t always simple, which is why you should consult with your funding liaison or other experts before making any purchases.
Funds from ESSER and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) can, among other things, be used to pay for activities and supplies needed to prevent, prepare for and respond to impacts of COVID-19. Allowable expenses also include technology, updates to physical spaces and classrooms and support for remote and hybrid learners. These long-term improvements will benefit students and educators now and in the future.
Funds should be spent on technology for remote and digital learning, including:
Technology can play a meaningful role in education, as it allows students to learn at their own pace and in their own style. They can also interact with subjects that might not otherwise be as interesting when presented solely on the page or via a lecture. Technology can also help students develop important the critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration skills they’ll need in the workplace. Additionally, students may relate better to teachers who are more technologically fluent.
According to the American University School of Education, “Students experience the digital divide in education across the U.S. Four major outcomes can result from less access to digital technology, according to the Digital Divide Council:
These outcomes most impact students of color and those in low-income families. They also inhibit the long-term success of students.”
Zoom partnerships. Zoom for Education helps schools address educator concerns and improve student outcomes with secure video communication services for hybrid classrooms, office hours, administrative meetings and more. We can be on call for any Zoom-related issues across your district.
Consult on and deploy the best hardware for your remote, hybrid and in-person classroom teaching. Software isn’t the only part of an effective virtual learning strategy. The appropriate hardware, services and training also come into play, including document cameras, headsets, tablets, laptops/Chromebooks, webcams and microphones. The right equipment can drive better outcomes for students in and outside of the classroom.
Troubleshoot and offer guidance for current videoconferencing challenges. Your school district needs solutions deployed in a timely manner. DGI is a national leader in videoconference and AV solutions, and we’ll work with your district to launch and maintain your education strategy.
Equip your school facilities with fun, welcoming and informative custom signage options that support full-time and hybrid plans. Your school district should safeguard the health and wellness of your students while reassuring and comforting even the youngest students in your classrooms.
Install protective shields, signage and temperature check devices to keep educators, administrators and students healthy and safe. We are prepared to equip your school with hardware, signage and devices to ensure a safe and healthy in-school experience, and seamless technological integration for all learners. DGI’s unique position as both a leading videoconferencing expert and a large-format printer allows us to help you adapt, regardless of the approach. DGI has implemented, enhanced and consulted on both remote-learning platforms and onsite solutions for K–12 education.
We also offer AV as a Service (AVaaS), which is an agreement offered exclusively through DGI Communications and our partner, TAMCO Shield, that bundles your AV solutions and support services into a convenient, ongoing monthly payment option.
This is similar to a retail subscription service and gives your school district the flexibility to stay technologically current without investing a large chunk of an already stressed annual budget on hardware with built-in obsolescence.
While your school district adapts to educating in the time of COVID-19, DGI’s expertise and innovative pricing can help maximize the impact of the funding available from the CARES Act/ESSER. Contact DGI today to learn more about our uncompromising commitment to quality and student-centered approach.