Concerns about the new coronavirus, with the consequent school closures and with significant economic fallout, are having profound effects on the public education landscape, from how educators deliver instruction to the amount of revenue available for operating schools.

Produced by WestEd as part of a collection of Crisis Response Resources, this document offers practical information and guidance to help school district and charter school leaders in California strategically manage and allocate resources amid widespread school closures and an almost certain reduction in education funding over the coming year due to the crisis caused by the Coronavirus 2019.

The four key guiding principles for decision-making detailed in this document provide some anchor points for education leaders. They include:

  • Ensure continuity of core services. To the greatest extent possible ensure continuity of basic services, principally quality instruction, technology for online learning, and meals for eligible students.
  • Focus first on providing support for students who need it most. During school closures, attend to those students who are least able to get learning support and resources from home.
  • Despite many unknowns, don’t wait to plan. While responding to immediate critical needs is essential, set aside time to confer with other district and charter school leaders to plan, strategize, and think ahead to next year’s budget.
  • Keep the community informed. Leaders should communicate with the community about their efforts to support students and families and about anticipated budget challenges and potential shortfalls in the future.

This timely brief including an analysis of available funding under the CARES Act, to help school district and charter school leaders manage and strategically allocate resources amid widespread school closures and in the face of an almost certain reduction in education funding over the coming fiscal year.

A new brief for school district and charter school leaders that includes an analysis of available funding under the CARES Act is also available, Managing Public Education Resources During the Coronavirus Crisis: Practical Tips and Considerations for School District Leaders.