Update on $100M in COVID-19 funds for schools from Senate Bill 117

On March 30, the California Department of Education issued a letter on the release of $100 million in funds for local educational agencies to battle the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding is pursuant to Senate Bill 117, which the Legislature passed on March 16 before adjourning until April 13 — although the recess may extend longer.

The letter states that funds will be sent to each county treasurer’s office within “approximately one week from the date of this letter (March 30),” with funding to be allocated to school districts, county offices of education and charter schools based on average daily attendance. The total funding amount of $100 million equates to approximately $17.37 per ADA, with a minimum allocation of $250.

According to the letter, the priority for these funds is “health and safety needs for LEAs, including for student meal access, during COVID-19 closure periods.” Funds can be used for costs associated with maintaining nutrition services, cleaning and disinfecting facilities, personal protective equipment, and materials necessary to provide students with opportunities for distance learning.

Additional information is available at the CDE’s SB 117 COVID-19 LEA Response Funds page.

The apportionment schedule by LEA can be viewed here.