Students with disabilities were impacted the most during the pandemic.

The American Rescue Plan can help them get back on track.

HOW THE BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A. AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDS CAN HELP STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

BY TATSIANA DAGROSA AND LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A.

The federal American Rescue Plan (ARP), signed into law in March of 2021, provides an unprecedented investment in education, giving states and school districts access to funds to help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools. In addition, this funding is intended to address the impact of the COVID19 pandemic on the needs of students more strategically.

This article offers specific strategies so that schools, educators, families, parent groups, and community stakeholders can better advocate for systemic changes that intentionally target the education of students with the greatest needs, including students with disabilities.

HOW MUCH OF THE ARP FUNDING IS AVAILABLE?

The Elementary/Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund under the ARP provides almost $122-billion to States and school districts. While the state education agency can retain up to 10%of the amount, at least 90% will be allocated directly to school