LPS outlines pandemic-related expenses

Lincoln Public Schools spent more than $2.6 million on pandemic-related expenses during the 2019-20 fiscal year that ended Aug. 31, the majority of which was paid for through federal CARES Act funding.

A breakdown of those expenses by category:

• Remote learning (internet hot spots, learning packets, document cameras, bags) -  $677,722
• Cleaning supplies (wipes, spray bottles, sprayers, paper towels, cleaner) - $63,747
• Personal protective equipment and medical equipment (face coverings, thermometers, face shields, gowns, gloves) - $391,359
• Payroll estimate (paid leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, district closure days, etc.) - $1,300,000
• Other (legal expenses, interpreters/bilingual liaisons, etc.) - $211,117 

The total for 2019-2020 was $2,643,945.

“LPS is working to provide a quality education throughout the pandemic through supports for both remote learning and in-person learning,” said LPS Associate Superintendent for Business Affairs Liz Standish. “Investments in all areas are necessary to administer the district pandemic plan and implement the protocols established with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

The 2020-2021 expenses will include similar categories: 

• Remote learning (internet hot spots, learning packets, document cameras, bags) -  $300,000+TBD
• Cleaning supplies (wipes, spray bottles, sprayers, paper towels, cleaner) - TBD
• Personal protective equipment and medical equipment (face coverings, thermometers, face shields, gowns, gloves) - TBD
• Payroll estimate (paid leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, district closure days, additional custodial staffing, etc.) - TBD
• Other (legal expenses, interpreters/bilingual liaisons, etc.) - TBD

LPS received $6.2 million in CARES Act funding, which they will continue to draw upon to pay for the majority of pandemic expenses.

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