Section 37-68-7 - Equity in Distance Learning Grant Program established; administration; purpose; basis for allocations; use of funds; supplemental matching funds(1) There is established the Equity in Distance Learning Grant Program which shall be administered by the department for the purpose of reimbursing schools for eligible expenses incurred in funding their distance learning plans, and in facilitating safe classroom and remote instruction.(2) Subject to appropriations by the Legislature, allocations to schools shall be made based on net enrollment, as defined in Section 37-151-201. For any school not funded under the total funding formula, the department shall calculate the net enrollment equivalent or fund the school based on enrollment.(3) Subject to the provisions of this chapter, and other applicable federal law and regulations, schools shall have the authority to use the funds provided in this grant program in a way which best facilitates their distance learning plan, and safe classroom or remote instruction.(4) Schools are highly encouraged to commit a portion of their federal ESSER funds, above the amount required by Section 37-68-11(b), as supplemental matching funds to offset the total cost of purchasing sufficient electronic devices, technological supports and systems of service for its distance learning plan.Amended by Laws, 2024, ch. 484, HB 4130,§ 89, eff. 7/1/2024.Added by Laws, 2020, ch. 488, SB 3044,§ 5, (became law without the Governor's signature on July 9, 2020).