Navigating A Changing World Requires Data and Planning
Schools and districts that use COVID resources to invest in gathering insight and engaging in robust planning exercises will be both better positioned to attract additional resources and to navigate future challenges.
Without data describing the health and efficiency of school buildings, school leaders miss the insights needed to take advantage of proven strategies for improving school environments, lowering costs, and enhancing resilience.
The one-time nature of Federal COVID relief funds (now totaling $176 billion) and the broad set of allowable uses makes them an excellent fit for durable, long-lasting improvements in facilities and grounds which will affect the health and learning of current and future students.
Five Guiding Principles: How Schools Can Use American Rescue Plan Funding to Ensure Healthy, Resilient Facilities for Students and Reduce Energy Costs and Emissions provides actionable information for school districts as they consider how to use these funds.
This four-page brief expands on the “Navigating A Changing World Requires Data and Planning” principle with examples from the field, questions to ask, resources to inform local decision-making, and opportunities for district action:
Advance data collection efforts.
Seek out new stakeholders.
Understand financial benefits.
Plan for a clean energy future.
Embrace a role in resilience.
We encourage you to download, share, and discuss within your community.
