It is designed as an extension to the 2017 New Jersey Department of Education resource entitled “Unlocking Your Federal Funds,” which provided information on Federal funding flexibilities under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 (ESSA).

This resource is best used within LEA's cycle of continual improvement. On a continual basis, LEAs in collaboration with diverse stakeholders identify students' needs, particularly the needs of the most vulnerable and those most impacted by COVID-19. Once these needs are identified, the examples below can provide ideas and inspiration about how to best use ESSER money and how to pair it with more sustainable Federal funding streams to have the most positive and lasting impacts on students and schools. 

Although this resource discusses Federal laws and regulations, it is intended solely to provide general information and does not constitute legal advice. This guidance provides a general overview of allowable activities, but whether or not a particular cost can be supported with Federal funds depends on the underlying facts and circumstances and State and Federal rules (e.g. New Jersey Treasury Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Uniform Grant Guidelines, respectively). Therefore, an activity listed in this resource may not be allowable in all circumstances, and conversely, an activity not listed in this resource may be allowable. This guide was created to demonstrate how programs, strategies, or initiatives may be supported with Federal funds. Please note a school or local education agency is under no obligation to use its Federal funds for those programs or activities highlighted in this guide.