Congress’ Bailout Could Benefit Local Schools

CENTRAL OHIO—As Congress works on a plan to fix the nation’s economy, some Central Ohio districts could stand to gain from the bailout.

Congress continued to look at what states and cities truly need to make it through these tough times.

NBC 4’s Mikaela Hunt DUG DEEPER and found the plan could give recovery money to local schools.

Federal dollars weren’t being used to finance construction at Columbus’ South High School, but that could change.
Columbus City Schools could receive nearly $46 million in 2009 for construction.

It could be a huge boon for the district.

“A large part of our schools date back to the 20th century. So, it’s a challenge for any district,“ CCS District Spokesperson Jeff Warner said.

The dollar amount for the federal funding was not set in stone, though.

“I think it’s important for people to know this is a proposal at this point, and it could change markedly in the next few weeks,“ he said.

South-Western City Schools would receive $6 million for construction.

It doesn’t amount to much, the district told Hunt, when you consider the deferred maintenance cost on its buildings hovers around $70 million right now.

There also was funding for something called Title 1 and IDEA (The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). Those funds would be restricted and could only be used for at risk-populations and special-needs students.

Districts hoped the federal government may take a second look those restrictions, too, before the House and Senate vote.

Flexibility. That’s what Ohio school districts need.

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