Bizzarro: $57 million coming to help Erie County Schools

Federal stimulus funds will help with COVID-19 pandemic impacts

ERIE, Jan. 15 -- State Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, announced that more than $57 million has been dedicated by Gov. Tom Wolf for Erie County schools to help serve their students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our schools are doing a great job to keep our kids engaged and learning despite all the obstacles they have to overcome,” Bizzarro said. “Making sure our kids are safe in school, or connected at home, comes at a cost and I’m glad this money will help cover some of that.”

The federal relief money was appropriated by Congress in December and can be used to continue food programs, technology upgrades, training, cleaning supplies and mental health supports as well as other education services the schools need.

More than $57 million is allocated to Erie County. In the Third Legislative District:

  • $4,645,226 for the Millcreek Township School District.
  • $1,220,716 for the General McLane School District.
  • $1,067,196 for the Montessori Regional Charter Schoo.

“Our schools continue to go above and beyond despite the circumstances,” Bizzarro said. “Schools also feed more than brains -- they are community centers for essential food programs too, and I’m glad to see this money go to support that and so much more.”

School districts and charter schools must apply to the Pennsylvania Department of Education to receive their share of the money set aside for Erie County. The application process will be posted on the PDE website. Funds must be used by September 2023.