S.C. non-public schools receive more than $38M in federal funding

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More than $38 million in pandemic-related reimbursements and future expenditures has been distributed to 111 non-public S.C. schools.

Nonprofit, accredited or licensed schools which have existed and operated prior to March 13, 2020 and have not received Paycheck Protection Program loans were eligible to request the funding, provided by the Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools program created by the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act.

S.C. Superintendent of Education Molly Spearman announced the distribution of $38,702,511 earlier this week.

“Every South Carolina student and family has been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic,” Spearman said in a news release. “These funds were appropriated by Congress specifically to address the needs of our private and parochial schools who have faced similar challenges to our public education system. The South Carolina Department of Education was pleased to work with our non-public partners from around the state to ensure their needs were met so that they can provide a safe environment for students, educators, and families.”

The act provided $2.75 billion nationwide for the program. Funded activities can relate to safely reopening schools, continuing instruction, addressing learning loss or supporting educational technology.

Available amounts ranged from $1,058 to $1.7 million. A list of S.C. schools awarded funding is available online.

“SCISA remains grateful for the efforts put forth by Congress, Gov. McMaster, and Molly Spearman to ensure that all students and families of South Carolina receive this funding to promote academic growth,” South Carolina Independent School Association Executive Director Spencer Jordan said.  “Their willingness to support students in need, regardless of where they attend school, has been a great benefit to all South Carolinians.”