Over the last few years, the Dayton Public School District has received COVID-relief funds from the federal government. These funds, often referred to as “ESSER” funds (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) or “ARP” funds (American Rescue Plan), have been used to keep students and staff safe during the pandemic, and to help students catch up academically after a period of disrupted learning in 2020 and 2021. There were several rounds of funding for K12 schools, denoted by ESSER I, II or III.

To keep the community informed about the district’s ongoing use of COVID-relief funds, regular reports will be shared on the district’s website throughout the lifetime of the funds. ESSER I funds expired in September of 2022. ESSER II funds expired in September of 2023. ESSER III funds will expire in September of 2024. 

In June 2024, the district expended the following: 

ESSER III – $4,306,599

These funds went toward salaries and benefits for co-teachers, SROs, paraprofessionals, custodians, nurses, and bus drivers. Funds also went toward Dayton Children’s Hospital, RTA bus passes for high school students participating in Summer Programs, professional development training, renovation of the Transportation Center, art supplies/instruments for various schools, and furniture for Kiser Elementary. 

Dayton Children’s Hospital – Funds went toward the District’s Resiliency Coordinators, which support student mental health.

Professional Development for Teachers – 95% Group & LEGO

95% Intervention Group provides students with leveled interventions in the areas of Phonemic Awareness and Phonics. Teachers have been trained to ensure the District is implementing the latest standards in reading instruction and intervention. 

Teachers participating in the Summer Intensive program also underwent LEGO Education training to support integration of STEM-based LEGO teaching into the summer program. This professional learning aimed to enhance their skills for implementation of LEGOs into Summer Intensive teaching.

Another COVID-relief spending update will be published next month. Read more about the district’s Recovery Plan here.