Authorized in December 2015, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) introduced a new block formula grant under Title IV, Part A with a wide range of allowable uses. Title IV, Part A, Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE) grants are intended to improve students' academic achievement by increasing the capacity of States, LEAs, schools, and local communities to:
- provide all students with access to a well-rounded education,
- improve school conditions for student learning, and
- improve the use of technology in order to improve the academic achievement and digital literacy of all students. (ESEA section 41?01).
The SSAE program provides SEAs, LEAs, and schools the flexibility to tailor investments based on the needs of their unique student populations. Where possible, the Department encourages coordination and integration of the SSAE program with activities authorized under other sections of the law, as well as other federal programs to improve outcomes for students.
LEAs or a consortium of LEAs may apply for SSAE program funds and must prioritize the distribution of funds to schools based on one or more of several factors, including schools that are
- are among those with the greatest needs, as determined by the LEA,
- have the highest numbers of students from low-income families,
- are identified for comprehensive support and improvement under Title I, Part A of the ESEA;
- are implementing targeted support and improvement plans under Title I, Part A of the ESEA; or
- are identified as a persistently dangerous public school under section 8532 of the ESEA.