Issues Raised by Hurricane Katrina: A Focus on Education and Training

Publication Date: September 2005

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Education

Type:

Abstract:

It is estimated that more than 400,000 elementary/secondary school children have been displaced by Hurricane Katrina. In addition, it is estimated that approximately 30 institutions of higher education (IHEs) in these areas have been severely damaged, and nearly 100,000 postsecondary students have been displaced as a result. Many of these individuals will not likely return to their homes, jobs, and/or schools within the 2005-2006 academic year. It is likely that numerous program regulations and statutes will need to be revisited to address the needs of the students and families affected by Katrina, as well as financial issues of the institutions that help make education possible for many of these individuals.

After a discussion of the applicability of the Stafford Act to education and training facilities, this report provides a general overview of the federally funded programs administered by the Department of Education (ED) that might be used to help those affected by this disaster, and the existing statutory and regulatory authorities available to assist individuals who have been affected by a major disaster, where applicable. Training programs administered by the Department of Labor (DOL) are also included. Specifically, training programs for youth, adults and dislocated workers are discussed. The report includes a discussion of legislative and funding options that might be considered for providing additional relief to the victims of this major disaster.

Several existing program requirements under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) will likely need to be addressed -- maintenance of effort, adequate yearly progress, and highly qualified teachers requirements -- to assist many of the schools and states in the affected areas. In addition, programs such as the Education for Homeless Children and Youth and Project SERV could be used to assist these students and schools, if additional funding were provided.

The Secretary of Education has authority to waive several of the requirements for aid recipients, institutions of higher education, and financial institutions when a disaster has been declared. Similar to the ESEA, several provisions might need to be revisited -- 50% rules relating to distance education programs, student loan forbearance period, and the "Return of Title IV Funds" calculation -- to provide students and IHEs with additional relief.

The Workforce Investment Act (WIA) authorizes employment and training opportunities for youth, adults, and dislocated workers. These programs are particularly pertinent for the individuals recently affected by the hurricane, because homeless individuals are automatically considered low income and are granted priority for intensive training and services.

This report will be updated as warranted by major legislation or other relevant developments.