What is ESSERF? 

Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds distributed by the federal government during and after the pandemic (2020–2024).

It is important to note that ESSER funds were restricted and could only be used to address pandemic-related needs. Districts had to spend funding on addressing learning loss, summer enrichment and afterschool programs. After those areas were addressed, districts could use their discretion to address needs arising from the pandemic. This funding could not be used for athletic facitilies, building new schools or any other non-pandemic related expense.

How did Kanawha County Schools use these funds? 

Kanawha County Schools (KCS) is the largest school system in West Virginia. The district serves more than 23,000 students, representing the region's diverse socioeconomic mix. KCS is comprised of 39 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, eight high schools and one alternative center, and two career and technical education/adult centers. 

From 2020–2024, these funds were used for the below KCS improvements, directly benefiting students and staff:

All KCS student and staff members were positively impacted by ESSER funded enhancements.

Kanawha County Schools ARP ESSER Spending Summary

Learning Recovery & Innovation

• Extra classroom teachers, interventionists, counselors, and aides.
• Summer Academy
• Afterschool programs
• Software programs that support teachers
• Additional technology for remote learning

Health & Safety

• Additional nursing staff and external communications equipment
• Additional staff and tuition coverage for virtual schools 
• Digital surveillance equipment upgrades to assist with contact tracing protocols
• Professional cleaning of band uniforms/instruments and additional art and music supplies

Infrastructure

• Inside improvements (bathrooms, flooring, repairs, etc)
• Window replacements
• HVAC upgrades
• Additional staff for maintenance & facilities departments (3 years)
• Outdoor classroom materials
• Outdoor space improvements
• Hardware & software upgrades for classrooms and central operations (replacement of old smart boards, laptops for staff, etc)

Schools and Centers that Received ESSER Benefits

Remaining Funds and Operational Continuity

All of the remaining funds have been assigned to projects in the county including, but not limited to: 

• Art & music supplies
• Custodial supplies
• $6.5 million in HVAC
• $1.9 million in windows
• Teacher/staff salaries
• Technology
• Transportation radios
• and security equipment

Operational Continuity is used on staff or items that allow us to continue operating as close as possible to how we did before the pandemic. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Electronic ticketing hardware and services for middle and high schools
• Warehouse, purchasing, communications and accounts payable staff to handle an increase in activity due to ESSERF projects and COVID-related issues
• Other supplies and software (not classroom or student related)
• Additional substitute costs
• Indirect costs