$22M+ Earmarked For Arlington In Local Aid, Education Funding

ARLINGTON, MA — The Senate, House and Baker administration have agreed to an unrestricted local aid and Chapter 70 funding commitment that provides a baseline amount for Fiscal Year 2021, providing support for municipalities and school districts as they finalize their budgets.

Under the agreement, Arlington will receive $14,566,028 in Chapter 70 funding and $8,056,055 in local aid. The town is also eligible for additional federal relief funding of $1,522,470.

"I'm pleased that the Senate, House and the Administration have come to an agreement to provide much-need resources for our schools during this difficult time," Sen. Cindy Friedman, who represents Arlington, said. "Our students and teachers have faced unprecedented challenges since the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and this crucial funding will ensure that we can continue to provide a quality education to our students despite the profound adversity they have experienced this year."

The agreement provides for funding of unrestricted general government aid (UGGA) at no less than the amount provided in FY20. Cities and towns will also see an inflation and enrollment increase for Chapter 70 education funding. Additionally, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will distribute emergency resources appropriated by the federal government to help each school district meet the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.