How Much of Their ESSER Funds Have McHenry County Schools Spent?
Data show that many districts have spent just a fraction of their allocated funds.
The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund provided funds to schools to target students who suffered the most academically during the pandemic.
The Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University compiled data on district spending and found that many districts have only spent a fraction of the allocated funds. Districts that serve McHenry County are included below.
While McHenry High School District 156 spent 100.50% of its ESSER funds, six districts have spent 0.00%. Seven districts spent less than 25.00%, while three spent between 25% and 50%. Marengo-Union Elementary District 15 spent 72.10%.
Districts spent the largest share on capital outlay, which is money schools spend on building construction or improvements or purchasing things like furniture, buses, technology, and other equipment. Schools spent the next most on salaries, followed by purchased services and supplies and materials.