Pisciottano announces federal COVID-19 relief funding for area school districts

Allegheny County Delegation    March 31, 2021 | 11:34 AM

HARRISBURG, March 31 – An estimated $33.6 million in federal funding is expected to be allocated to area school districts to assist them in reopening safely and to address learning losses as more students and teachers return to classrooms, state Rep. Nick Pisciottano announced.

“Teachers and school staff have faced many challenges during this time while they continue to educate our children and keep them safe,” said Pisciottano, D-Allegheny. “These federal funds will help our schools by providing them with the support they need to help students, whether it’s additional instructional materials, equipment upgrades, professional training and mental health and related services. This investment will help our schools in their efforts to navigate a safe, in-person learning environment.”

The funding is part of nearly $5 billion allocated to Pennsylvania in federal relief under the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund.

The estimated funding for school districts in the 38th Legislative District is as follows:

  • Baldwin-Whitehall School District - $5.1 million.
  • McKeesport Area School District - $16.9 million.
  • South Allegheny School District - $3.4 million.
  • South Park School District - $1.3 million.
  • West Jefferson School District - $1 million.
  • West Mifflin Area School District - $5.9 million.

School districts and charter schools must use at least 20% of the money to address learning loss and the social, emotional, and academic needs of underrepresented students, including students from low-income families, students with disabilities, English learners, migrant students, students experiencing homelessness, and children in foster care.

Schools can use the remaining funds for a variety of activities, including food service, professional training, technology purchases, sanitization and cleaning supplies, summer and after-school programs, and mental health supports.

More information about the funding is available here.