Many Metro Detroit schools are kicking off the academic year this week, and operations will look different for many -- and not just because of COVID-related protocols.

Gretchen Whitmer and state treasurer Rachael Eubanks announced a new grant program for Michigan teachers and support staff. Those who worked additional time and incurred additional costs during the 2019-2020 school year due to COVID-19 can receive grant money through two new grant programs. Under both the Teacher COVID-19 Grant and the Support Staff COVID-19 Grant programs, eligible teachers can receive up to $500 and eligible support staff can receive up to $250. The state of Michigan’s Fiscal Year 2021 budget provides $53 million for eligible K-12 classroom teachers and $20 million for eligible support staff. “Our teachers and support staff have made incredible sacrifices this year to ensure our kids can get a great education while Michigan fights the COVID-19 pandemic.