Matzie: District schools slated to receive more than $25 million to support continued learning

AMBRIDGE, March 30 – Schools in the 16th Legislative District are expected to receive $25.4 million in federal funding to ensure students and staff enjoy a safe and productive return to the classroom, state Rep. Rob Matzie announced today.

 Matzie, D-Beaver/Allegheny, said schools will be able to use the funding for a broad range of needs, from basic education, transportation and food services to program-based student supports.

“Learning is a dynamic process, and a successful return to the classroom will involve more than simply replenishing supplies and resuming regular programs,” Matzie said. “Educators will need to assess student progress and address gaps in learning. Securing this funding will give schools the resources needed to ensure that all students – despite pandemic-related setbacks – are ready to move forward and thrive.”

Matzie said the following allocations are expected:

  • Aliquippa School District – $8.1 million.
  • Ambridge Area School District – $4.6 million.
  • Baden Academy Charter School – $1.8 million.
  • Central Valley School District – $2.4 million.
  • Freedom Area School District – $2.2 million.
  • Hopewell Area School District – $2.1 million.
  • Quaker Valley School District – $1.4 million.
  • Rochester Area School District – $2.8 million.

The federal relief funding – provided by the American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund passed by Congress and signed by President Joe Biden – includes nearly $5 billion to help Pre-K to 12 schools return students to the classroom and equitably expand opportunity for students who need it most.

At least 90 percent, or $4.5 billion, will go to traditional public school districts and charter schools, with each receiving an amount proportional to the federal Title I-A funds received in 2020 under the Every Student Succeeds Act.

School districts and charter schools must use at least 20 percent 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. The remainder can be used for a broad range of resources, 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.