This proposal sought to understand the decision-making of the K-12 public school super-intendents during the COVID-19 crisis and periods of recovery. Western New York school district leaders participated in focus groups organized according to the New York State Department of Education classifications of high-, average-, and low-needs districts. By understanding how school officials navigated varying stages of the emergency and their strategies for allocating American Rescue Plan funds, this study can guide future researchers and education agencies in developing proactive, equitable policies and guidance for future crises requiring extended school closures. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]