The American flag flies above the entrance of Ella White Elementary on Wednesday afternoon.

ALPENA — Having enough staffing to accelerate learning and reduce learning gaps is the top priority among Alpena Public Schools stakeholders, according to the results of a recent survey.

The district on Wednesday released results of a survey of all stakeholders – a group that includes parents, teachers, students, and school support staff – meant to help determine how best to use Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief lll grants.

The ESSER grants, released in three parts, are meant to address the impact of COVID-19 on students and K-12 school districts. Allowable uses of those funds include educational technology, improving air quality and facilities, mental health supports, and transportation.

Before Christmas break, the district posted its survey to gain input from stakeholders and ultimately got 888 responses.

Parents were the largest group to participate in the survey with 461 responses, making up 51.9%. Staff accounted for 205 responses with 23.1% and 150 students, claiming 16.9%.

Each participant was able to select three responses.

The results showed that staffing to accelerate learning and reduce learning gaps is the top priority with 509 responses, accounting for 57.7%.

The second priority was social and emotional training and support with 374 responses accounting for 42.4%.

Improving air quality in school facilities got 309 responses, instructional materials to help with learning recovery got 289 responses and additional learning time got 274.