ARP/ESSER stands for the American Rescue Plan Act Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds. This federal money is to help safely reopen and sustain the safe operation of schools and address the impacts of COVID-19 on students academic, social, emotional and mental health needs.

In the most recent distribution, Norfolk was awarded $113,301,572.62 in ESSER III funds.

Norfolk Public Schools has used approximately $66 million to:

• Begin upgrades to ventilation systems in 30 schools and buildings across the division to provide increased fresh air;
• Continue purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Continue purchase of cleaning and disinfection supplies
• Additional class materials and supplies so students do not have to share, including school supplies for all students
• School facility repairs and improvements to reduce the risk of virus transmission, including the replacement of select water fountains at all schools and centers with bottle filling stations.
• Additional tutors to assist with math and reading skills during the school day
• Student and classroom technology
• Online tutoring services accessible anytime anywhere on a device connected to the internet

YES! Norfolk Public Schools seeks community engagement and feedback throughout the year on how to use these funds most effectively to support our students. Please contact the Communications and Community Relations Department at 757-628-3459 or at tellus@npsk12.com.