WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal officials are intensifying efforts to recover misused pandemic education funds after identifying tens of millions of dollars in fraud, waste, and improper spending tied to COVID-19 relief programs.
What This Means for You
- Federal investigators have identified millions in misused education relief funds
- Schools and agencies may face increased oversight and accountability measures
- Efforts aim to ensure taxpayer funds are used for student services as intended
The U.S. Department of Education said it is working with its Office of Inspector General to investigate and address misuse of federal education funding distributed during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal education relief funds — including programs like Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief — were designed to help schools respond to pandemic disruptions, support students, and maintain operations.
Key Findings From Investigations
Recent audits and investigations identified several cases of improper spending and alleged fraud.
In Puerto Rico, investigators found the Department of Education improperly spent $3,900,000 in federal relief funds on services that were not delivered as required and did not support student academic progress.
In West Virginia, an investigation alleged that a school district maintenance director, along with family members and a contractor, defrauded the Boone County school system out of $3,400,000 by falsifying records and overbilling for custodial supplies that were not fully delivered.
In Wisconsin, auditors found the state’s Department of Public Instruction improperly approved more than $20,000,000 in relief funds for 184 ineligible nonpublic schools under a federal assistance program.
Oversight and Accountability Efforts
Federal officials said the investigations are part of a broader effort to identify fraud and strengthen safeguards in education programs.
The Office of Inspector General is responsible for auditing federal programs and investigating misuse of funds, while the Department of Education oversees program implementation and compliance.
Next Steps
Officials said enforcement actions and oversight efforts will continue as part of a federal initiative focused on reducing fraud and ensuring education funds are used as intended for students and schools.
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