Georgia State Board of Education Approves $1.13 Billion in Funds

Federal funding of education plays a significant role in helping to shape students' academic achievements and success. The recent Georgia State Board of Education approval of $1.13 billion in federal funds allows district leaders to significantly accelerate student achievement and transform teacher support this upcoming school year.

This article unpacks the details of the approved federal grant and its implications for districts across Georgia.

Understanding Federal Formula Grants for Education

Federal formula grants are noncompetitive awards that allocate federal funding to states, districts, and schools based on a predetermined formula. Unlike competitive grants,the U.S. Department of Education's formula grants do not require an application process. The federal government provides these grants to states, which, in turn, distribute the funding to local districts and schools.

The formula considers various factors, including but not limited to population needs, demographics, geographic factors, and financial needs, to ensure an equitable distribution of funds.

Some examples of federal formula grants for K-12 education include Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) state grants, Title grants to Local Education Agencies (LEAs), and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA).

Georgia Department of Education FY25 Federal ESSA and IDEA Grants

The Georgia State Board of Education approved a grant award not to exceed $1,130,969,980 in Federal Funds for awarding annual formula-based allocations under Title I, Part A; Title I, Part C; Title I, Part D Subpart 1; Title I, Part D Subpart 2; Title II, Part A; Title III, Part A English Learners; Title IV, Part A; Title V, Part B; The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 611; and IDEA 619.

Details outlined in the Georgia Department of Education Item for State Board of Education Approval document include:

Purpose

These formula-based allocations provide Local Education Agencies (LEAs) with supplemental funding to support the intent and purpose of federal programs as defined in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Objectives

Increase the percentage of K-5 students with a strong knowledge of foundational skills and concepts.
Raise the percentage of high school students who graduate ready for enrollment, employment, or enlistment.

The recently approved grant by the Georgia State Board of Education will support initiatives under:

Title I, Part A: Improving Basic Programs Operated by Districts
Title I, Part C: Education of Migratory Children
Title I, Part D Subpart 1 & 2: Prevention and Intervention Programs for Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At Risk
Title II, Part A: Improving Teacher Quality
Title III, Part A: English Language Acquisition
Title IV, Part A: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
Title V, Part B: Rural and Low-Income Schools (RLIS) Program
IDEA 611 & 619: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Grant Period: July 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025
Click here to view district grant allocations.

Federal Education Grant Impacts on Georgia Schools

Maximizing this grant's funding by providing schools with evidence-based materials and resources for effective literacy instruction can significantly enhance student reading proficiency and overall academic success.

Accelerated Early Literacy Development: Investing in high-quality, evidence-based materials is essential for building foundational literacy skills in PreK-5th grade, ensuring students achieve reading proficiency.
Increased Support for English Learners: Title III, Part A funds can be directed towards resources that enhance language acquisition for multilingual learners. Providing targeted support helps these students achieve academic success alongside their peers, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary language and reading skills to excel in all subject areas.
Improved Services and Support for Diverse Learners: IDEA funds (611 and 619) are specifically allocated to support students with disabilities. Providing accessible, evidence-based resources tailored to their needs can foster an inclusive learning environment where every student thrives.
Effective Professional Development: Funds can be used to train educators in instructional strategies grounded in the Science of Reading research. Well-trained teachers are better equipped to deliver effective instruction, manage classrooms efficiently, and use data to inform teaching strategies. This improves teacher satisfaction and retention and leads to better student outcomes.

Enhanced Student Performance: Access to engaging evidence-based educational materials, accessible technology, and resources for personalized learning tailored to student needs further enhances learning outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What funds will my district be awarded?

A: Eligible districts should view the FY25 Federal ESSA and IDEA Grants Allocations document on the Georgia Department of Education website.

Q: Are there restrictions on how my district can allocate these funds?

A: Yes. The grant is designed to support a broad spectrum of educational initiatives under:

Title I, Part A: Improving Basic Programs Operated by Districts
Title I, Part C:Education of Migratory Children
Title I, Part D Subpart 1 & 2: Prevention and Intervention Programs for Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At Risk
Title II, Part A: Improving Teacher Quality
Title III, Part A: English Language Acquisition
Title IV, Part A: Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
Title V, Part B: Rural and Low-income Schools (RLIS) Program
IDEA 611 & 619: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Q: What timeframe do districts have to implement grant-funded initiatives?
A: The grant period is July 1, 2024 - September 30, 2025.

While this article offers high-level information on this Georgia federal education grant, it is crucial to stay updated with communications from the Georgia Department of Education and adhere to its guidelines.