A recent Harvard University study found that the unprecedented federal funding given to school districts during the pandemic had a positive impact on student achievement, particularly in high-poverty schools. The study showed that for each additional $1,000 in relief aid per student, there was an increase of 0.03 grade equivalents in math and 0.018 grade equivalents in reading, equating to six and three days of learning respectively. The investment in education was deemed sufficient to justify the magnitude of the funding, especially in high-poverty districts where students received significantly more aid.
The report suggested that the boost in achievement could lead to increased future earnings and help close gaps that widened during the pandemic. It also recommended focusing on academic recovery initiatives such as tutoring programs, expanding summer learning, and reducing student absenteeism to continue addressing learning loss.
While the federal aid is set to expire in September, the study’s authors hope that states will step in to continue supporting students in need. The report emphasized the importance of not returning to business as usual and ensuring that low-income students are not disproportionately affected by the pandemic’s impact. Overall, the study highlighted the positive effects of targeted funding on student achievement and urged continued investment in education to prevent permanent losses caused by the pandemic.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
