How ESSER Funding Can Support Elementary Computer Science
What Funding is Available?
Since March 2020, the federal government has provided state and local educational agencies (SEAs and LEAs) with $122 billion in emergency relief funds to help address COVID-19’s impact on elementary and secondary schools.
This funding comes from the recently signed $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan (ARP). This unprecedented funding for education can support states and local districts to equitably expand opportunities for students who need the funds most, including students from low-income backgrounds, students of color, students with disabilities, English learners, students experiencing homelessness, and students with inadequate access to technology.
What better way to utilize your funding than to close equity gaps by bringing computer science to your state and district?
Why Computer Science is more important than ever
According to Code.org, multiple studies show that students learning computer science perform better in reading, math, and science in primary school; score better on standardized AP exams in secondary school; are 17% more likely to enroll in university; and perform better at problem-solving from primary school to university.
The opportunity lies in preparing teachers with the essential skills needed to integrate computer science into their classrooms for equitable access to all students. The investment in teachers and students will yield significant returns in increasing students' confidence, communication, and critical thinking skills, vital for future leaders.
How can these fund help implement CS in your school or district?
- K-5 teacher computer science professional development, including three years of in-person or virtual support
- Robot, kits, or other physical computing devices
- Stipends and incentives for overwhelmed teachers, librarians, and instructional coaches
Why BootUp PD?
As the popularity of coding grows, the equity gap is growing even faster. Fortunately, the solution is one click away. Through long-term professional development, BootUp trains teachers to empower all elementary students as they become creators, collaborators, communicators, and real-world problem-solvers.
BootUp coaches teachers to engage students through easy-to-use, block-based programming languages (Scratch and ScratchJr) and lessons that include interactive stories, games, music, and more. With BootUp, computer science is elementary for all.
Learn how to put ESSER Funding to work for your district. Click HERE
