School District to Receive $51 Million for Ian Recovery

The School District of Lee County (SDLC) is honored to announce that it is set to receive $51 million in Hurricane Ian recovery dollars as part of Governor Ron DeSantis’ $338 million total award to multiple agencies in Lee County, Florida. The amount makes it the highest allocation to a single entity, tied only to the City of Cape Coral.

"On behalf of the School Board and our entire educational community, I extend my deepest gratitude to Governor DeSantis and The State Legislature for the remarkable commitment and support shown to our schools and students in the aftermath of the devastating hurricane,” said Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier. “This invaluable investment not only secures a brighter future for our children but also demonstrates the unwavering dedication of our state leadership to the well-being of our community. Together, we will ensure that our schools stand stronger and prouder than ever before, fostering resilience and hope for generations to come."

Governor DeSantis made the landmark announcement last week, revealing the substantial award to communities that were severely impacted by Ian. These funds will be distributed through the Legislative Appropriations Program, a pivotal component of the Framework for Freedom Budget. The aim of the Legislative Appropriations Program is to bridge the gaps in hurricane repairs and facilitate funding for permanent repair projects while applicants continue to work with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) to secure reimbursement through the FEMA Public Assistance Program.

“My administration has committed to cutting through bureaucratic red tape and filling in the gaps where federal funding ends, ensuring communities impacted by Hurricane Ian can rebuild and flourish,” affirmed Governor DeSantis. “This significant financial injection of $338 million is poised to make a remarkable difference as these communities embark on the journey of rebuilding.”

SDLC’s overall estimated impact totals upwards of $300 million following Hurricane Ian. The District is committed to diligently working with its insurance carriers, FEMA, and the Federal Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) to ensure that the District is fully recovers following the devastating impacts from the hurricane. This award is not just a financial boost; it represents a monumental step forward in the District’s recovery. These funds will provide crucial assistance in the financing of the District's ongoing permanent work projects and paving the way for a more resilient future for our students, staff, faculty, and local community. SDLC and FDEM will work together to determine the allocation of funds to specific capital projects.