New Guidance on Investing Federal Relief Funds to Address Absenteeism
A summary of the December 2022 U.S. Department of Education guidelines for how local education agencies can use federal COVID-19 relief funds to address chronic absenteeism, lagging student engagement, and learning loss.
In December 2022, the U.S. Department of Education issued new guidance on how federal Covid-19 relief funds could be used to tackle absenteeism and learning loss in K-12 schools. These recommendations outline various strategies, including data-driven approaches, outreach to students and families, partnerships with community organizations, and addressing social and emotional well-being. Guidance also encourages the development of early warning systems, tiered supports, investment in professional development, and the use of data systems and dashboards to track attendance and instructional opportunities. The Department emphasizes the importance of timely and effective use of the relief funds to support academic recovery and mental health needs.