Address the impact of COVID-19 on students, educators, and faculty
The Department will be a leader and partner in addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in educational areas. By September 30, 2023, the Department will respond to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to continuously provide for high-quality educational environments and capabilities by supporting state educational agencies (SEAs), local educational agencies (LEAs) and institutions of higher education (IHEs) to:
- Continue to support schools in maintaining safe, fully in-person instruction for students.
- Utilize COVID relief funds on appropriate, effective and evidence-based activities to reengage students, address lost instructional time, and improve educational opportunities by offering 300+ Department-led technical assistance engagements.
Effectively manage federal student loans
The Department will provide effective customer service for borrowers to simplify the student loan repayment process. By September 30, 2023, Federal Student Aid will improve loan servicer quality and accuracy to levels at or above 95 percent, as defined in student loan servicer agreements.
Reduce disparities in attainment of high-quality degrees and credentials
The Department will support institutions and states to assist low-income students and students of color to enroll in and complete high-quality postsecondary education programs, including at community colleges and through career and technical training. By September 30, 2023, the Department will increase the number and diversity of higher education grant applicants from community colleges, HBCUs, TCUs, MSIs, and public 4-year colleges by 5 percent to support and assist low-income students and students of color in attaining improved educational outcomes.
