States and school districts: The final package has $56 billion in “budget stabilization” funds that may help states and localities stave off some painful budget cuts. Given that many of these budgets fund school districts and public universities, the money may keep many programs alive and prevent cuts in others. Of the $56 billion, $5 billion is available only as bonuses for school districts that meet highperformance targets.

Job training programs: With unemployment rising, community colleges and others will see a spike in the number of individuals coming back for job-related training programs. The bill has $3.95 billion in additional funding for adult and youth programs, including $1.2 billion to create an estimated 1 million summer jobs for youth.

Science: The final package includes $8.5 billion for the National Institutes of Health and $3 billion for research activities at the National Science Foundation. “The bill restores science and innovation,” says Rep. James Clyburn, DS. C., who serves in the House leadership. Bundled with NSF funding, at least $200 million is earmarked for modernization of science and engineering facilities at colleges.

Education technology: Some college students may find it easier to buy computers, since the bill will allow owners of the popular 529 Education Plans to spend proceeds on the costs of computer technology. Students and parents already can put these funds toward tuition, fees, books as well as room and board. At the K-12 level, the stimulus bill includes $650 million for computer and science labs as well as related teacher training.

Among other things, the package earmarks $200 million to bolster funding for the college work-study program. And, states are eligible for $250 million in competitive grants to design data systems that improve the analysis of student achievement.