In the spring of 2021, President Biden and Congress approved an unprecedented infusion of federal funds into our public education system to safely reopen schools, address pre- and post-pandemic unfinished learning, and build lasting, equitable systems of teaching and learning. While these resources were badly needed, it was clear that the new funding would test the ability of school systems to properly manage and allocate the money in ways that most effectively address student needs.

To provide guidance and support in this endeavor, the Council assembled a high-level task force of urban district leaders to develop and release a toolkit entitled Investing American Rescue Plan Funds Strategically and Effectively. School districts are now one year into their federally funded relief and recovery efforts. As we reach the anniversary of the release of the Council’s initial investment guidance, district leaders should take the opportunity to step back and assess their investment planning and implementation.