ESSER funds may have seemed like an outpour from the government, certainly, an unprecedented amount of money to use essentially at the districts’ discretion. However, for many, it may now feel like a downpour as the deadline approaches and there are funds left to spend.  

As districts make their decisions, rays of sun have peeked through the clouds, bright spots that leaders can look to for guidance in their budgeting. Such examples will be highlighted here over the next few months to serve as inspiration for those with funds remaining.  

ESSER spending that is student-centered, especially for social-emotional learning (SEL) programs, can result in transformational change across districts. In K-12 Dive, the work of Christine Mason, Michele Rivers Murphy, and Yvette Jackson is highlighted to guide decision makers. Their writing, complete with applicable tools ready to utilize for planning, urges leaders to thoughtfully use ESSER funds to prioritize trauma-informed practices and SEL integration. This focus of funds can help students recover from the challenges of the pandemic and foster their long-term academic and emotional success.  

With intentional programs in place, SEL will provide students with the tools to manage emotions, establish positive relationships, demonstrate empathy, develop agency, and set and obtain goals for the future. In addition, implementing SEL has been associated with improved school climate and creating a positive learning environment for all students.  

The opportunity to allocate ESSER funds to establish or improve SEL within a school or district is exciting. Some practical steps the authors suggest include:  

• Providing professional development opportunities that equip educators with the knowledge to address trauma 
• Hiring additional staff to support students’ emotional well-being and provide counseling 
• Creating safe and supportive environments to promote student well-being  
• Strengthening family and community partnerships 

By prioritizing students’ mental health and well-being, schools can create a positive and nurturing environment that supports academic achievement and overall student success. To achieve these long-term benefits, a mindful approach to funding allocation should be a top priority to ensure the specific needs of a school community are met and to help the sun’s rays break through the clouds, leading to bright skies in the future.  

Strong ideas are only the beginning. Achieving the Promise works with organizations to design systems, align leadership, and support the sustained work of improvement.