Interboro School District

To develop the LEA Plan for the use of the ARP ESSER Funds, ISD collected perceptual data from stakeholders, and District learning data to identify and prioritize needs.

1. Virtual Learning: In 2019, ISD had limited technological infrastructure and resources for hybrid and distance learning. Individual devices were needed for prevention and mitigation practices. Community needs assessments also indicated that most families needed student devices for virtual teaching and learning. ARP ESSER funding will lead to equitable, accessible programming for all students through one-to-one device purchases, expansion of technology infrastructure, and the addition of staff-recommended, research-based software for blended and remote instruction. ISD’s K-12 Virtual Academy was developed to keep virtual students connected to the Interboro community and respond to caregivers’ requests for alternatives to in-person instruction. ARP ESSER funding will support Virtual Academy staffing, software, technology, student supplies, and tutoring. The program offers asynchronous and synchronous learning pathways to ensure virtual students receive related services.

2. Academic Support: Community feedback and instructional data demonstrate a need for extended learning opportunities during the school day for students impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With ARP ESSER funds, the District will incorporate Reading Specialists at the intermediate grade levels for school day intervention and tutorials. Academic data and teacher feedback indicated heightened phonemic needs for elementary-aged students. Orton Gillingham PD will be scheduled for primary grades teachers to implement multi-sensory, research-based practices.

3. Social Emotional Support: Stakeholders identified SEL education as a key component to accelerate student learning. Trends in student attendance, CST/SAP referrals, and the PSSM survey confirmed this need. Workshops for school counselors will include: restructuring the HS guidance department to reduce caseloads, how to increase individual/small group counseling opportunities, align future-ready, longitudinal curriculum.

4. Maintaining Healthy Facilities: Maintaining healthy facilities has been a major priority in the pandemic. ISD took recommendations from Chester County Health Department, the CDC, professional staff, and secondary students to plan for in-person learning for 22-23 year. ARP ESSER funding will equip all classrooms with developmentally appropriate furniture for safe, healthy classrooms. ARP ESSER funds will be used for PPE and supplies to maintain healthy facilities. Stakeholders will inform the iterative plan to adapt to changing student and community needs. Community surveys and focus group meetings will provide feedback on effectiveness. Central/building administration will use data analysis to monitor the interventions to ensure quality, continuity, and effectiveness.