The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency declaration will end May 11, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
The official ending of the pandemic could have impacts on what is considered an “allowable use” for the Emergency Assistance for Nonpublic Schools (EANS) programs.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) has released guidance indicating that items purchased with EANS funds may be returned to the state. There is also conflicting information about if EANS items will be considered Federal Financial Assistance (FFA) after the grant ends.
Because of the current uncertainty surrounding the program, WCRIS recommends the following:
- Be prepared for items purchased with EANS money to be removed from your school;
- Use your remaining funds on intangible items (tutoring, professional development) to address learning loss; and
- Don’t be afraid to leave money unspent. Your school will not be penalized.
The DPI has authority over how the end of EANS is carried out, but the ED has the final say.
WCRIS will continue to monitor this and has pushed CESA 6, the DPI and the ED for further clarification. If you have specific questions about EANS, contact CESA 6.
