Federal IDEA and Title I legislation were passed 50 and 60 years ago respectively, to provide additional funds for low-income students and students with disabilities. These funds can pay for social workers, technology and books, teacher and staff pay raises, reading specialists, one on one tutoring, arts and sports programs, building upgrades and more. But the government has never met their commitment, and has underfunded these programs by $680 billion over the educational career of today’s high school seniors.

After contributing almost $200 billion of much-needed funds to public education since the COVID-19 pandemic, federal support will come to an end on September 30, 2024. This short-term federal infusion of funds meant that students across the country had a chance to benefit from the myriad resources provided through expanded federal investment in their public schools. From free summer schools, to additional support personnel for students with disabilities, we saw positive outcomes not only academically, but socially and emotionally as well.

As ESSER funds expire, it is more important than ever to call on the federal government to fulfill promises made long ago to fully fund Title I and IDEA. It is equally important to call on our state legislators to provide adequate and equitable state funding as well. By having school boards across the country pass resolutions supporting these efforts, and folks like you taking action for change, we can galvanize this moment to shed light on the critical funding needs in our public schools.

The AROS Fund Our Schools Campaign calls for support of the Keep Our Promise to America’s Children and Teachers Act (Keep Our PACT Act) and the IDEA Full Funding Act (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), legislation that aims to fully fund Title I and IDEA over the span of 10 years.

Take action with AROS by following the links below. Your voice matters as we continue the fight for the schools all of our children deserve.