In response to the financial strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has allocated billions of dollars in bailout funds to colleges and universities across the country. This aid is intended to help higher education institutions cover expenses and maintain operations during these challenging times. However, some students are feeling left out of the relief efforts, as not all colleges are using the funds to directly benefit those in need.

The bailout money, which is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, has been distributed to colleges based on a formula that takes into account the number of full-time students and the institution’s on-campus Pell Grant recipients. This money is meant to be used for expenses related to the pandemic, such as shifting to online learning, providing refunds for room and board, and supporting struggling students.

While many colleges have used the bailout funds to provide emergency financial assistance to students, others have been criticized for not doing enough to support those in need. Some institutions have chosen to prioritize paying off debts or funding new projects with the money, rather than directly aiding students who are struggling to pay for tuition, housing, or other expenses.

This disparity in how colleges are using the bailout funds has sparked outrage among students, who feel that they are being overlooked in favor of institutional priorities. Many students are facing financial hardship due to the pandemic, with job losses, family emergencies, and other challenges making it difficult to afford their education. Without adequate support from their colleges, these students may be forced to drop out or take on additional debt in order to continue their studies.

In response to these concerns, advocates are calling on colleges to prioritize the needs of students when using bailout funds. They argue that colleges have a responsibility to support their students during this crisis, and that using the money for other purposes is a betrayal of that trust. Students are also calling for more transparency in how colleges are using the funds, so that they can ensure that the money is being used to benefit those in need.

As the pandemic continues to impact higher education, it is clear that colleges must do more to support their students during these challenging times. The federal bailout funds provide an opportunity for colleges to provide much-needed relief to those in need, and it is crucial that they prioritize the needs of students in their efforts to weather this crisis. Only by working together to support all members of the college community can we ensure that higher education remains accessible and equitable for all.