Navigating the ESSER Cliff
Insights from Our Districts
By Jennifer Porter
CFO/Treasurer/CSBO
Comm. Unit Sch. Dist. 300
Angela Smith, Ed.D.
Asst. Supt./Operations, CSBO
Aurora West SD 129
Ann Williams, Ed.D., SFO
Deputy Superintendent
School District U-46
In recent years, school systems have navigated significant financial challenges and opportunities. According to the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, the past three years have been characterized by a rapid and strategic use of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funding in anticipation of a looming financial “cliff” expected this fall. Marguerite Roza, a research professor at Georgetown University and director of the Edunomics Lab, estimates that with the expiration of ESSER funds, schools will need to reduce their budgets by over $1,000 per student on average.
Looking ahead, the Edunomics Lab warns of a “perfect storm of financial chaos” due to the abrupt end of federal pandemic relief funds, declining district enrollments and slowing state revenues. District leaders must reassess their spending to meet the instructional and emotional needs of future students effectively.