SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) — As the spending deadline for ESSER funds nears, the Sioux City Community School District continues spending down its dollars provided to the district through that government pandemic relief program.
The spending deadline for the funds is January 28, 2025. In total, the Sioux City District received $59.4 million through the program and so far, $2.2 million is unallocated.
The bulk of about $8 million remaining in the district’s account will be used for teacher salaries in 2024-25 And HVAC updates at 3 high schools.
Board president Jan George says the District will be prepared in 2025 when ESSER dollars are completely spent.
“We want to make sure we’re well ahead of the game so that we don’t have to do some big cuts, and this way I think our strategic planning that the staff and administration leadership team along with Patty Blankenship. I think we’re ahead of the game, we’re ahead of most districts I think.” said George.
ESSER III funds must be allocated by this September. Another hot topic for board members was the support of Iowa’s AEA system, but due to some questions by some board members was deferred to the next board on February 26.
