Congress has passed and President Biden has signed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). It is the single largest investment even in public education. It opens up a world of opportunity for districts to invest in the future of our students and schools because our elected leaders value public education. Elections matter!
This money represents an opportunity, but also an obligation. As educators and advocates, we must lead the way on how it is invested. And the good news is that we can! Districts and the State of New Jersey are required to work with all stakeholders, including educators, to determine how to invest these new resources.
Below you will find information about ARPA, how it can be used and how local associations can get involved. Please check back often as these resources will be updated as we get new information.
RESOURCES
American Rescue Plan Funding Checklist
Use this ARP checklist as a quick way to identify and share your funding priorities.
Local Template Letter
Sample Letter for Locals to Use notify the Superintendent/School Board of the Association’s interest in stakeholder interest.
Local Template Letter Follow-up
This is a follow up letter for local associations to send to the Superintendent/Board of Education to remind them of the importance of the Association’s role in the stakeholder process.
Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund Comparison Chart
(March 2021)
ARP Funds
Allowable Uses: Summary of Allowable Fund Uses Under Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER)
ARP Funding Guide
Provides overview of fund uses, synopsis of U.S. Department of Education guidance, and fund use examples and recommendations.
ARP Bargaining and Advocacy Guidance
Supports local affiliates in contract negotiations, leveraging ARP funds
Share your ARPA story
If your local association is working with your district on smart, creative use of ARPA funds, please share your story here. We will share the best stories with other local leaders around New Jersey.