MADISON, Wis. (SPECTRUM NEWS) -- The challenge of moving to online and distance learning is straining resources for colleges, universities and K through 12 schools across Wisconsin. Federal aid is on the way to schools statewide to address some of the challenges.
On Wednesday, Governor Tony Evers announced more than $80 million dollars in financial assistance for schools state wide, all funding that is part of Wisconsin's share from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security, or C.A.R.E.S Act. The governor says the state will prioritize funding for students and districts that have the highest needs when it comes to remote learning, and those that have been the most significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Our educators, faculty members, staff, and students have risen to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting with very little warning, and planning for a new normal,” said Gov. Evers. “I’ve always said what’s best for our kids is what’s best for our state, so I am hopeful this funding can help alleviate expenses already incurred and further creative efforts to transition between in-person learning and distance learning seamlessly as we prepare for the upcoming fall semester and continue to fight COVID-19 in Wisconsin.”
A total of $46.6 million is earmarked for K through 12 schools to help districts pay for expenses related to the pandemic, including laptops and other supplies needed for online learning. The funding also includes $37 million for universities and technical colleges in Wisconsin, including $18.9 million for UW System colleges.
“We appreciate the funding announced today by Governor Evers. As we have said throughout, COVID-19 has had a severely negative fiscal impact on our institutions, and we anticipate costs will increase as we work to bring students back to campus this fall. We look forward to continuing to work with the Governor and the legislature to identify the resources necessary for our institutions to successfully serve students in the coming academic year,” said UW System Regent President Andrew S. Petersen.
“This funding is a welcome first step in helping our institutions manage costs brought on by the pandemic, but further support is needed to meet the growing and changing challenges. Our universities continue to prepare for in-person instruction this fall, and this funding will allow them to partially offset technology infrastructure, personal protective equipment, and other costs,” said UW System President Ray Cross.
Marquette University, a private Catholic college in Milwaukee will receive $6.6 million and Wisconsin tribal colleges will receive $2 million in funding. Prior this announcement, K through 12 schools and higher education institutions already received directly through the CARES Act. A full break down of the latest round of funding for higher education institutions can be viewed here.