South KC Perspective
School Funding Approved
By John Sharp
The Jackson County Legislature on September 28 unanimously approved an ordinance to provide $5 million in federal funds received by the county to public school districts in the county to help cover some of their costs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The funds are from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act which created a new $150 billion relief fund for state, county and city governments with populations over 500,000 to help cover costs incurred due to the pandemic. Jackson County received $122,669,998.30 in CARES funds.
In the southland, Center School District will receive $159,740.97, Grandview School District will receive $277,662.11 and Hickman Mills School District will receive $397,936.26. Kansas City Public Schools will receive $1,062,331.06.
The funding was allocated to school districts based on enrollment and poverty and allows the districts to have significant flexibility in how the funds are used for things such as enhanced wireless internet services, improved educational technology, COVID-19 testing and nutrition programs.
Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr., praised the legislature for approving the equity-based school funding plan that he proposed.
“Their support of this plan ensures teachers and staff have access to the resources they need to provide a quality education to our children no matter where they live,” White said.