The U.S. Department of Education announced via a conference call on Dec. 16, 2005, that federal legislation regarding the release of funding to assist states and school districts with the cost of educating students displaced by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita is expected to be passed and signed by the end of the year. As soon as that occurs, Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) should receive information regarding the process of applying for funds. That information will be communicated to Arkansas school districts by a Commissioner’s Memo once it becomes available.