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Stimulus Package Would Benefit Hillsborough Schools

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By ADAM EMERSON | The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 28, 2009

The $825 billion stimulus package taken up today by Congress would pump millions into Hillsborough County schools and revive plans administrators put on hold as the economy soured.

If the package is approved as previously crafted, the school district could gain $143 million in federal aid during the next two years. The money could be used for technology upgrades and school renovations, among other needs.

While they're careful to say nothing is final, school administrators have thought about their wish lists. Half of their share in this year's proposed stimulus award would cover construction. That's good news for a district that has had to rein in its long-term renovation plans.

Cathy Valdes, the district's chief facilities officer, said the school system needs to renovate heating and air-conditioning units, roofs and lighting in its buildings.

Its needs, Valdes said, total $378 million.

School officials caution that the money comes in one-time installments, and that it can't be used to cover recurring costs, such as salaries.

It also can't plug a budget hole left by steep losses in state revenue. The school district still may have to save $27 million by June.

The largesse, however, may cover technology needs. The district's computer systems could use a larger bandwidth and up-to-date software, said Jeff Eakins, the district's director of federal programs.

"These are dollars to move our schools into the 21st century," Eakins said.

Eakins and others plan to form a task force in the coming weeks – presuming Congress passes the aid – to come up with ways to spend the money.

They'll also need guidance, Eakins said. Federal money always comes with strings attached.

Reporter Adam Emerson can be reached at (813) 259-8285.

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