Public and Higher Education

A central goal of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is to stabilize funding for public and higher education.

Education represents the largest investment among American Samoa’s share of Recovery Act funds, and this money is soon to be flowing in the Territory. (April 2010)

Current estimates show that public and higher education will receive more than $54 million in ARRA funds.

With the approval of the State Fiscal Stabilization Funds and Consolidated Grant applications looming, this money is expected to generate and save hundreds of jobs, and create stability for American Samoa’s teachers and children during these particularly challenging times.

American Samoa will receive about a quarter of a million dollars in ARRA funds for programs through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B.

Some projects or activities to be supported by these funds include salaries and benefits for returning or new special education staff; professional development; data reporting enhancements; and coordinated early intervening services.