On Monday, Gov. Brian Kemp announced the next phase of funding from the CARES Act, meant to cushion the blow from the COVID-19 pandemic. The Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund was distributed by the U.S. Department of Education to provide local educational agencies, institutions of higher learning and other education groups with emergency assistance.
Kemp’s distribution of the $105 million in funds aims to support initiatives across all levels of education in Georgia.
“From Day One of my administration, I have made it clear that we will always work to keep Georgia’s students, teachers, and administrators top of mind as we address educational needs in our state,” said Kemp.
Despite some criticism, Kemp followed through on his raises for teachers and the state did meet the recommended funding levels under the Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula. Critics say the QBE system is outdated but these concerns have been put on hold as COVID-19 overwhelmed them.
“With the allocation of these funds, we are building on that promise – from K-12 classrooms, to our university campuses. This GEER funding will support broadband and connectivity extensions, mental health services, workforce training, childcare, and tech innovation as instructors move to online learning in an unprecedented educational landscape due to COVID-19,” said Kemp. “These are challenging times for our state, but we will continue to work around the clock to support our students and teachers, improve outcomes, and get people back to work. Together, we will protect the lives and livelihoods of all Georgians.”
The governor split the money into a few strategic programs for disbursement, rather than limiting by school or geography.
First, they allocated $29.3 million for Supporting Student Connectivity. Internet access has long been identified as a problem and the state has been working on solutions for a few years but COVID brought the problem zooming to the fore. This money will be used to help ensure Georgia’s 2,300 schools have broadband signal extenders on school buildings, and by expanding learning environment to help with social distanced learning. Mobile WiFI signals, such as those on a school bus, may also be part of the funding.
An additional $11.5 million will be designated towards Mental Health and Student Support Services within the University System of Georgia.
The Technical College System of Georgia had already begun expanding their “eCampus” initiative and $10.4 million will be provided to assist the program’s expansion for in-demand online courses. Ultimately, this could save money elsewhere as colleges will save some on the expense of providing a COVID-safe in-person environment.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and other members of the Georgia Independent College Association will receive $10 million in funds to support relief efforts
The Construction Education Foundation of Georgia (CEFGA) will receive $3.3 million to expand its “Construction Ready” program to take Georgia residents from no experience to a construction career in 25 days through a boot-camp-style training, credentialing, and placement program.
The Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) will receive between $17 and $19 million to implement additional childcare options for students ages 5-12 whose school systems have opted for virtual learning. This funding will help at least a little to go towards one of the biggest issues with virtual school, parents that are unable to work from the home.
