Advancing Student and Staff Health and Wellness Using COVID Relief Funding

COVID-19 has underscored the inextricable link between health and wellness and student learning. In response to the health crisis, three federal COVID relief packages approved in the past year will send nearly $26.4 billion to California to cover COVID-related learning and school reopening expenses. This unprecedented infusion of cash provides an opportunity for school leaders to create more resilient schools that recognize the critical importance of health and wellness. The challenge for LEAs and states is to use one-time flexible funding wisely so that students benefit; to use it sustainably so that they don’t face a financial cliff when the added state and federal support runs out; and to use it within the spirit and bounds of the federal law.

This brief from the Partnership for Children & Youth and the California School-Based Health Alliance:

  • Summarizes the federal aid that can support systemic and sustainable school health and wellness strategies, including allowable uses and restrictions

  • Offers some foundational steps for decision makers and advocates who are engaging in local planning processes and working with their communities to promote healthier schools

 
 

webinar

Advancing Student and Staff Health and Wellness Using COVID Relief Funding

  • How school leaders in California can use the $26.4 billion in federal COVID relief funding to support health and wellness strategies

  • Real-world examples and foundational steps for decision makers and advocates to promote healthier schools

Resources:

 

Panelists:

· Lisa Eisenberg, Policy Director, California School-Based Health Alliance

· Michael Lombardo, Executive Director, Placer County Office of Education

· Josh Schultz, Deputy Superintendent, Napa County Office of Education

Moderator: Hayin Kimner, Project Director, California Community Schools Learning Exchange

Hosted by: Partnership for Children & Youth and California School-Based Health Alliance

Sponsored by: Kaiser Permanente

September 20, 2021