Impact of Federal Pandemic Aid on Student Learning

SOURCE www.npr.org
Two new studies show that federal pandemic aid money helped improve student learning, but did not fully remedy learning loss from the pandemic. The funds were distributed based on need, with higher-poverty districts receiving more money. The impact varied based on student demographics and district characteristics. While the money led to academic gains, additional funds may be needed for full recovery.

Key Points

  • Federal aid improved math and reading scores, equivalent to several school days of learning
  • The impact of the funding varied based on student demographics and district characteristics
  • Additional funds may be needed for full academic recovery

Pros

  • Federal aid led to significant improvements in students' academic performance
  • The funding reduced educational inequality by disproportionately benefitting lower-income districts
  • Academic gains associated with the funding have long-term economic and social benefits

Cons

  • The funds did not fully address the learning loss experienced by all students during the pandemic
  • Middle-income districts may continue to struggle as they received less federal aid
  • Teacher layoffs may be inevitable as ESSER funds expire