Tennessee school officials scramble to spend ESSER funds after last-minute spending deadline

During the recent Hickman County Board of Education meeting, significant discussions centered around the management of ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funds, which are crucial for local school improvements. The board revealed that they had completed several projects over spring break, including the installation of an air handler at East Hickman Intermediate School, funded by ESSER resources.

However, the meeting highlighted a pressing concern regarding the timeline for utilizing these funds. The board received unexpected communication from the Department of Education, stating that all remaining ESSER funds must be spent by the end of the workday, a notice that arrived just before the start of spring break. This abrupt deadline has left the board scrambling to ensure compliance while maximizing the use of the funds.

Despite having previously been granted an extension to use the funds, the board expressed frustration over the last-minute directive, which they felt undermined their planning efforts. They are currently appealing to the state of Tennessee for reimbursement for the air handler installation, as it had received prior approval.

The board is committed to keeping the community informed about the status of the ESSER funds and their ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of federal funding regulations. As they work to resolve these issues, the board aims to ensure that the resources intended for school improvements are effectively utilized for the benefit of students and the community.