This article was originally published in EdSource.
The California Department of Education is partnering with SupplyBank.org Disaster Relief Fund to provide assistance for students, teachers, and school staff impacted by the devastating fires blazing through Southern California.
The wildfires, which have burned nearly 27,000 acres, killed five people and destroyed at least a thousand structures, have also closed 335 schools in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura and San Diego counties and impacted at least 211,000 students, according to the CDE.
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Three schools in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles have had significant damage, according to CNN Weather.
“Our school communities desperately need our assistance as these horrific wildfires rage across Southern California,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond. “In times of crisis, Californians consistently demonstrate their resilience and generosity as we continue to deal with the effects of climate change. Let’s continue to unite and support those in need as they work to stay safe and rebuild.”
The California Department of Education will work with the disaster-relief fund to distribute resources to school communities impacted by the wildfires, according to a press release from the department. Donations are tax-deductible.
School leaders at schools that had to close because of wildfires can submit J-13A waiver requests to the CDE that will allow them to continue to collect attendance-based funding.
The CDE released School Outdoor Air Quality Activity Recommendations last year to help school district and charter school leaders navigate decisions about whether to close schools or remain open. The department also has additional resources for emergencies on its website.