The district is looking for input on their safe return to school this year and the use of ESSER funds. ESSER funds are federal funds provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, the COVID-19 relief law signed in 2021.
Here is an important question they ask:
Do you have any suggestions for changes to the Safe Return to Learning and Continuity of Services Plan for the 2022-23 school year?
The Secretary of Education recently published a letter urging districts and states to use ESSER funds to help retain and hire teachers and staff. He made it clear that ESSER funds can be used to increase compensation and protect staff well-being through lessening work levels and increasing prep time, among other things.
Please complete this survey and remind the district that using this money to support and retain current employees is not only allowed, but encouraged, by the Department of Education!
Link to the survey: https://publicinput.com/AustinISD-ESSER
Feedback is due by Sunday, January 30th so make sure to give your input today!
