School district secures funding for asthma inhalers and transition readiness programs

Beloit School District is set to enhance student health and educational opportunities with several new initiatives discussed during the TLE & Pupil Services Committee meeting on June 17, 2025. A key highlight was the approval of funding to introduce a stock of short-acting bronchodilators in schools, aimed at addressing respiratory issues among students. This initiative is expected to reduce absenteeism due to respiratory conditions by allowing students to receive immediate care on-site, thus minimizing disruptions to their education and preventing parents from needing to leave work to pick up their children.

In addition to the health initiative, the district is awaiting responses on multiple grant applications that could further support student services. Among these is a $50,000 grant for alcohol and drug abuse prevention, contingent on the state’s biennial budget approval, with results expected by mid-summer. Another significant application is for a $37,955 transition readiness grant, which aims to provide driver's education and licensing support for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This initiative addresses transportation barriers that often hinder students' access to post-secondary opportunities.

Furthermore, the district has submitted a second round application for a recovery school planning grant, seeking an additional $100,000 to develop a recovery high school program. Award notifications for this grant are anticipated later this summer.

The discussions highlighted the importance of these initiatives not only for student health but also for family engagement and overall educational success. Committee members expressed gratitude for the efforts involved in securing these grants, emphasizing their potential impact on the community. As the district moves forward, these initiatives promise to create a more supportive and accessible educational environment for all students.