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Funding the Recovery

We have an unprecedented opportunity to reshape the future of public education with the huge investment in public schools under the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. Learn more about these critical school rescue funds and how you can determine their use in your district.

On March 10, 2021, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan, President Biden's $1.9 trillion stimulus package that will provide critical funding for public schools, create and support millions of jobs, cut child poverty in half, make health care more affordable, and put this pandemic behind us.

That includes more than $170 billion for K-12 schools and higher education institutions, giving us an unprecedented opportunity to reshape the future of public education and create a system that our students deserve.

Learn about school rescue funds

Biden vaccinating educators

What Does the American Rescue Plan Mean for Educators and Students?

The pandemic relief package provides nearly $170 billion to help schools and campuses to operate safely.
Child in mask washing hands

NEA’s Guide to Federal Emergency Aid For Public Education

Now is the time for educators to lead and use their voices to work with parents, communities, and other caring allies for students to ensure these historic resources are used to ensure equitable and just conditions for all of our students.
college campus

The American Rescue Plan: What’s in it for Higher Education?

The financial needs of college students have only grown during the pandemic, and many colleges and universities are struggling financially, leading to job furloughs and layoffs.
Two individuals discussing a document

How should School Rescue Funds be used?

We created the School Rescue Funds Ranking Tool to help educators raise their voices and lead the way when advocating for the use of the critical funding provided through the American Rescue Plan. Rank your top priorities for your district and make your voice heard.
school cafeteria food shortages

How to Use American Rescue Plan Act K–12 Education Funds to Identify and Support Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) includes several allotments to support students experiencing homelessness and other marginalized student groups.
NEA President Becky Pringle
The American Rescue Plan will undoubtedly alleviate some of our nation’s immense suffering, but there is still much work ahead to fully recover from the worst crisis to hit this country in more than a century — and to build back something better.
Quote by: Becky Pringle, NEA President

More Info and Action

American Rescue Plan Funding Checklist

Use our ARP checklist as a quick way to identify and share your funding priorities.

Bargaining and Advocacy Guidance for Safe and Equitable Schools

NEA guidance for how local affiliates can bargain and advocate for resources that not only support student learning, but also students’ social-emotional well-being.
Teacher with elementary school students

Join the Movement

Becoming a member of the National Education Association connects you with a movement of educators supporting each other. We are a community that will help you advocate for the funding, resources, and support you and your students deserve.
National Education Association

Great public schools for every student

The National Education Association (NEA), the nation's largest professional employee organization, is committed to advancing the cause of public education. NEA's 3 million members work at every level of education—from pre-school to university graduate programs. NEA has affiliate organizations in every state and in more than 14,000 communities across the United States.