NASHVILLE - Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced Tuesday that $81 million in federal grant funds will be made available for K-12 schools and colleges and universities as part of a "first wave" of money going to help institutions safely reopen to students.
The funding comes courtesy of the congressional Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.
"Reopening our schools, colleges and universities is a key priority and grant funding ensures institutions can make proper accommodations to keep educators and students safe as we continue to fight COVID-19," said Lee, who made the announcement with his Financial Stimulus Accountability Group.
The governor said in his news release that the "first wave of funding provides for technology and distance learning supports as well as measures to improve social distancing."
Initial grant funding includes $11 million in grants to local education agencies to support reopening efforts. Another $50 million goes toward supporting technology such as Wi-Fi devices, laptops or any other equipment needed to support reopening.
Funding for K-12 is coming through noncompetitive grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 to support students in the same grade or class with "continuous learning implementation throughout the year."
The higher education initiative will use $20 million in grants to public and nonprofit higher education institutions, with money going toward social distancing and "technological improvements" for distance learning. Colleges and universities with on-campus student housing can use funds to ensure facilities comply with COVID-19 health precautions.
The Financial Stimulus Accountability Group is comprised of Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, R-Oak Ridge; House Speaker Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville; Senate Finance Committee Chairman Bo Watson, R-Hixson; Sen. Raumesh Akbari, D-Memphis; Rep. Harold Love, D-Nashville; Rep. Pat Marsh, R-Shelbyville; and state Comptroller Justin Wilson.