Covington and Newport schools are among 47 Kentucky public school districts that will share nearly $23 million in federal funds for school repair, renovation and technology, state education officials announced Wednesday.

        Newport Independent Schools was awarded about $901,000, while Covington Independent Schools will receive $750,000. Districts were selected to receive funding or bond prioritizations based on need, poverty levels, average daily attendance and financial ability. Also considered were project viability and the benefits of the project to the students.

        Henley McIntosh, safety director for Covington Independent Schools, said the money likely will be used to replace the roofs at the senior and junior high schools, and possibly other buildings, at the Holmes campus. Construction could begin this summer.

        “You want to produce a safe and comfortable learning environment for your students to achieve academically. It's hard to do your best if there's a leak in your building and water is running down the wall,” said Mr. McIntosh, who prepared the district's grant proposal with help from teachers, architects and finance officers.

        Lisa Gross, spokeswoman for the Kentucky Department of Education, said the funding comes at an opportune time.

        “These funds are particularly important now, in light of the state budget shortfall and the likelihood that there will be no extra state money for school districts during the next school year,” Ms. Gross said. “Many districts have had facilities needs in their plans for quite a while, and these funds will help them meet those needs.”

        State officials have cut about $700 million to balance the two-year budget, which remains in limbo.

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