Long-term impact of the pandemic on education and the need for continued federal support for public schools

The pandemic exposed and exacerbated existing issues within public school infrastructure and staffing, particularly in under-resourced districts. As funding from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief fund (ESSER) is depleted, school leaders are emphasizing the necessity for ongoing federal support to address these challenges. Despite the significant financial aid provided during the pandemic—totaling around $190 billion—many educators believe that without additional resources, the educational system may continue to suffer. For instance, a survey indicated that over 90% of teachers reported chronic absenteeism among their students, and half of the surveyed educators predicted that the education system could deteriorate further in the coming years. This situation underscores the critical need for a long-term commitment from the federal government to ensure that students receive the support necessary for their academic and social recovery.

The Role of ESSER Funding

The ESSER funding was designed to assist schools in reopening safely and addressing the pandemic’s impact on education. However, as the last portion of this funding expires, concerns arise about how schools will manage without these emergency resources. Education finance expert Jess Gartner noted that most school districts had already planned their budgets for the fiscal year, indicating that they were aware of the impending funding expiration. Yet, the need for additional support remains, particularly for those districts that were already facing funding challenges prior to the pandemic.

Continuing Challenges

The pandemic’s effects on student learning are expected to have lasting repercussions. Experts warn that if learning loss is not adequately addressed, students may face permanent academic setbacks. The urgency for federal assistance is echoed by leaders in education, such as Baltimore City Superintendent Dr. Sonja Santelises, who advocates for a long-term strategy to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on educational outcomes. As schools transition back to their pre-pandemic funding structures, the potential for recovery hinges on the ability to connect students with the necessary resources and support systems to thrive academically.