Millions in federal funding targeted at disadvantaged, disabled
students
Central Coast schools are expected to receive more than $34
million from the economic stimulus package passed by Congress and
signed by President Barack Obama last month.
Millions in federal funding targeted at disadvantaged, disabled students
Central Coast schools are expected to receive more than $34 million from the economic stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by President Barack Obama last month.
Preliminary estimates from the Department of Education and the Congressional Research Service show that schools in the tri-county area will receive approximately $11.5 million for Title I programs that provide financial assistance to schools with high numbers of disadvantaged students. Another $22.6 million will help schools provide services to children with disabilities through the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
“Our state budget woes have combined with a miserable economy to really put our schools at risk,” said Congressman Sam Farr (D-Carmel). “We’re fighting a holding battle to maintain our basic levels of service. We must make sure our schools have the funds they need to prevent teacher layoffs and keep our schools in working order.”
Farr’s office said details about the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund will be released soon. That fund includes large pots of money for education programs, with California’s nearly $5 billion share to help schools prevent layoffs and update facilities.
“Critics complain that debt from this recovery will swamp future generations,” Farr said. “I say that sacrificing our current generation of students is not an acceptable alternative. We have the ability to rebuild our economy and reduce that debt, and that’s where our efforts must be directed.”
San Benito High School is expected to receive more than $154,000 in Title I funding and $485,000 through IDEA. The Hollister School District should receive roughly $392,000 in Title I funding and $1.26 million through in IDEA funds, according to Farr’s office.
